Iatmul Mwai Mask, Palembai Village, Sepik R., Papua New Guinea

Description

Here's a Mwai mask, used in male initiations and in preparations for raids and battle, from the Iatmul speaking village of Palembai on the middle Sepik River in Papua New Guinea.  This is not old.  I bought it from New Guinea Primitive Arts in the Dymocks Building on George Street in Sydney, Australia, about 25 years ago.  The nop on top of the head and the fringe fiber beard around the lower half were made of human hair in the old days.  Most modern Mwai masks have cowrie shell eyes but this one has cone shell disks.  It has a nicely shaped nose and dished face typical of Palembai carvings.   Measures 29" long not including the fiber "hair" and beard.
I am happy to combine shipping.  Any shipping over payment will be refunded.  Shipping to the USA only.  No returns accepted.