Oceanic Art - Masks Enlargement

This ancient "barak" mask comes from the New Guinea coastal region known as "Inland Turubu." Barak masks were the most important ritual artifacts for this area and had the power to stop tribal fighting and ensure and enforce peace. I have personally collected many of this type of mask and this is one of the oldest and finest. The reverse is deeply patinated and shows definitive signs of being stone-carved. The piece is stable and strong but has over the years developed moderate to extensive insect damage along the edges and at the base of the nose. The mask is 17" in height, comes mounted on a custom display stand. sold