FINE YUAT RIVER BIWAT MASK

Origin: New Guinea, E. Sepik Province, Lower Sepik, Yuat River, Biwat people  (Provenance:  Acquired from a private collection in Amsterdam)

Period/Date:  Early 20th century

Materials:  wood, natural pigments, fiber, rattan, resin, bone, turtle shell, cowrie shell

Description:  This impressive mask has a strong spiritual presence combining the familiar brute features of Biwat art with a sweet elegant aesthetic.  There is old shell wealth adornment attached to the ear comprising a turtle shell ring, an animal bone and a cut cowrie shell.  It retains much of its original fiber and its pigments are all original.  In excellent condition with an old age crack near the bottom rim.  The mask is distinguished by its bold features and makes great use of volume and space.  It came with an old tag having the numbers P236-NM.  Presented on a custom bronze display stand.

Dimensions:   Height: 12.25"  (31 cm), Width 8.25"  (21 cm)

Price: $8000       Currency Conversion        FREE SHIPPING With (Buy Now) Feature!

A last image of the mask after having a bonze base made for it