"Sepik Case Mask – Papua New Guinea"
This hut mask is carved in wood and surrounded by plant fibers. Its zoomorphic design is reminiscent of an owl or other nocturnal bird, recognizable by its bulging eyes, a protective bird with a joyful expression. Sepik hut masks are not intended to be worn, but to be hung in the spirit house, a collective space of the tribe. They represent the protective spirits of the clan. REGION: Papua New Guinea MATERIAL: Wood PERIOD: early 20th century DIMENSIONS: 38 x 25 cm