Mask

19th–early 20th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 353

Masks were, and in some cases remain, a central element of male religious life among the peoples of the Lower Sepik region in northeast New Guinea. Dance masks, typically representing powerful spirits, were used in a diversity of ceremonial contexts, either worn directly on the face or, in many instances, attached to a larger basketry framework placed over the wearer's head. Not all types of masks, however, were intended to be worn. Many Sepik peoples produced masks or mask-like objects, which lacked eye holes and served, like carved figures, as sacred objects kept within the men's house. Small masks were also created to adorn other sacred objects, such as flutes, or were used as charms.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

Title: Mask
Date: 19th–early 20th century
Geography: Papua New Guinea, Murik Lakes region, Karau village, Lower Sepik River region, Murik Lakes
Culture: Murik Lakes
Medium: Wood, paint
Dimensions: H. 19 1/4 x W. 9 1/4 x D. 5 1/2 in. (48.9 x 23.5 x 14 cm)
Classification: Wood-Sculpture
Credit Line: The Michael C. Rockefeller Memorial Collection, Bequest of Nelson A. Rockefeller, 1979
Object Number: 1979.206.1493
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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