601 - Polychrome anthropomorphic mask, Papua New Guinea. Mask carved from a

Polychrome anthropomorphic mask, Papua New Guinea. Mask carved from a single piece of wood, depicting a human face. The mouth and eyes are openwork. The expression is stern, accentuated by the line across the forehead. The nose is very prominent, carved with an eye for realism, which is surprising for the styles typical of Sepik cultures. The nose bears an ornament made of braided plant fibers (raffia?). Almost the entire face is painted: a white background over which are added series of ochre and black arcs. The latter color is also used to highlight the defining features of the face. Two pairs of half-spirals accentuate the forehead. The ears are depicted in a non-realistic manner; they are used to support a false beard made of woven plant fibers (raffia?). This beard is also featured directly on the mask in the form of a frieze of shells: the larger ones are cowrie shells (Cypraea moneta) and the smaller ones are nassa shells (Nassa sp.). The overall stylistic features link this mask to the cultures of the Middle Sepik in Papua New Guinea, most likely to the Iatmul, the major ethnic group in this region. Undoubtedly intended for decorative purposes, this mask echoes the familiar forms of facade masks, which adorn community houses (haus tambaran). Although a later work, this mask displays great harmony and meticulous craftsmanship. It also demonstrates the vitality of artistic and artisanal traditions in Papua New Guinea. Sepik peoples (Iatmul?), Middle Sepik region, Papua New Guinea. Patina, as is. Without a base. Dimensions: 38x25 cm. Estimated date: last third of the 20th century Provenance: French private collection Expert: Nicolas CORIGLIANO - Corail & Mana gallery