A PAIR OF DANCE MASKS, LOWER RAMU RIVER AREA, PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Wood, pigment and fibre binding

The larger "male example" has suffered some worn damage to its "eyebrows" and the head and neck of the central bird figure, and there is also further timber missing from the left hand cheek motif and the top right corner of its smile. There are a couple of insect holes and very fine traces of red, blue and white pigment. The female mask has suffered some minor wood loss from the head protuding from the chin and has traces of red, yellow and white pigment. The bite stick has indentations from use and there are three substantial areas of wood loss near the edges of the mask on the reverse. Neither example appears to have been repaired or restored.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

These used male and female dance masks represent mythical clan ancestors and most probably date from the mid-20th century, one of which still has its bite stick intact. These types of masks are generically called brag and were used in the initiation of young men