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an image of a wooden mask on a black backgroundan image of a wooden mask with feathers on ita wooden mask that is sitting on a pile of strawa close up of a wooden mask on a black backgroundan image of a wooden mask on a black background
Maître Philippe AMIGUES - Hotel des Ventes du Tarn

601 - Polychrome anthropomorphic mask, Papua New Guinea.
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Estimate €50 - €100
Sale commission
Description
Polychrome anthropomorphic mask, Papua New Guinea. The mask is carved from a single piece of wood, depicting a human face. The mouth and eyes are openwork. The expression is stern, emphasised by the line across the forehead. The nose is very prominent, carved with a focus on realism, which is surprising given the styles typical of Sepik cultures. The nose is adorned with a braided plant fibre ornament (raffia?). Almost the entire face is painted: a white background overlaid with a series of ochre and black arcs. The latter colour is also used to highlight the defining features of the face. Two pairs of half-spirals emphasise the brow. The ears are depicted in a non-realistic manner; they serve to support a false beard made of plaited plant fibres (raffia?). This beard is also depicted directly on the mask by means of a frieze of shells: the largest are cowrie shells (Cypraea moneta) and the smaller ones are nassa (Nassa sp.). The combination of stylistic features links this mask to the cultures of the Middle Sepik in Papua New Guinea, most likely to the Iatmul, the majority ethnic group in this region. Undoubtedly intended for decorative purposes, this mask echoes the familiar forms of façade masks, which adorn community houses (haus tambaran). Although a later example, this mask displays great harmony and meticulous craftsmanship. It also demonstrates the vitality of artistic and craft traditions in Papua New Guinea. Sepik peoples (Iatmul?), Middle Sepik region, Papua New Guinea. Patina, as found. Without plinth. Dimensions: 38x25 cm. Estimated date: last third of the 20th century Provenance: French private collection Expert: Nicolas CORIGLIANO – Corail & Mana gallery
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About the sale Great Autumn Sale: Part 2
Auction location
Auction time 10/31/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures modified on 10/12/2026 at 11:57 AM
Lot description modified on 10/12/2026 at 11:57 AM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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