OC591: Boiken Talipun Mask

This intricately woven rattan Yangoru Boiken mask has the original natural pigment colors, and a good patina from age and use. This piece would have been attached to a large shell and used for brides price, trade and currency for weddings, funerals and war disputes.     

Collected by Bruce Lawes in the 1970's.

13" tall by 5" wide. Early 20th century, East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea.