Iatmul Replacement Head – Papua New Guinea

Iatmul wooden head – Papua New Guinea Beautiful carved wooden head covered with a patinated earthy material, the face decorated with traditional ceremonial motifs in white paint (or pigments). The peaceful look is accentuated by cowrie shell inlays in the eyes, the nose with large nostrils is typical of Iatmul art, as are the lips which are delicately pursed. The ears are each pierced with two holes, intended to retain facings which have left traces of friction on each side. Beautiful patina of age, and lack of polychromy. This removable head was most likely intended to be placed on a large male statue, in the manner of traditional over-modeled skulls.
REGION: Iatmul people, Middle Sepik. Papua, New Guinea
MATERIAL: Wood, earthy material, polychromy
PERIOD: 20th century
HEIGHT: 21 cm WIDTH: approximately 13.5 cm
(Base)
Inventory number: OC022