1
Portfolios%3D%221687%22%20and%20Disp_Obj_Type%3D%22Sculpture%22%20and%20Century%3D%22%22
Sculpture
Mask (Mai)
Iatmul artist, (active )
Iatmul artist
Papua New Guinea
Primary
29 x 6 1/2 x 5 1/2 in. (73.7 x 16.5 x 14 cm)
.
.
.
Wood
Wood
Iatmul; made in Middle Sepik River Region, Papua New Guinea
0
0
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
This mask was made in the mid-20th century by an Iatmul artist after the traditional mai masks danced by young initiated men and boys. Mai masks were not worn directly over a dancer’s face, rather they were attached to a large basketry piece that fit over his head and upper body. To this piece were attached brightly colored flowers, feather and leaves that disguised the human form below. Hidden below the costume the dancer sang in falsetto through a bamboo tube which helped to further transform his voice and presence. Four masks were danced together in two pairs, one as a pair of brothers and one as a pair of sisters. While the performances were public affairs, much of the preparation before and activities during were veiled in secrecy.
[Gallery label text, 2009]
1977.158
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
77.158DI#1
digital image
10/7/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/Inventory pictures/77.158_I1.jpg
77.158DI#2
digital image
7/28/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/77.158_A1.jpg