Rare Yipai Dance Mask Face Element – Central Asmat, West Papua A fascinating and unusual wooden face element from a Yipai (Yipaai) dance mask, originating from the Central Asmat region of West Papua. This exceptional ethnographic object was field collected in situ during the 1990s and represents an important element of Asmat ceremonial art and mask tradition. Carved from a single piece of wood, this striking facial element features a distinctive pair of carved spectacle-like eyes, creating a powerful and memorable expression. These eye elements were traditionally attached to the front of a Yipai dance mask, contributing to the supernatural appearance of the mask during ceremonial performances. Among the Asmat people, masks are closely connected with ancestral spirits, initiation ceremonies, and the relationship between the living community and the spirit world. The exaggerated facial features, including the unusual eye design, were not merely decorative but served to transform the wearer into a powerful spiritual presence during ritual dances. The object shows a beautiful natural patina from age and use, preserving the character of traditional Asmat wood carving. Its unusual form, excellent preservation, and direct field collection history make it a rare and desirable piece for collectors and researchers of Oceanic art. A remarkable example of Central Asmat ceremonial culture, representing the creativity, symbolism, and spiritual depth of one of New Guinea’s most celebrated artistic traditions. Origin: Central Asmat, West Papua, Indonesia
Culture: Asmat people
Object type: Face element from a Yipai dance mask
Material: Wood
Period: Mid to late 20th century (collected in the 1990s)
Condition: Excellent original condition, with natural patina
Provenance: Field collected in situ in Central Asmat, West Papua, in the We pack securely sending worldwide ADRIAAN VAN DIS besprak mijn beide boeken, dus ook het recente ‘Ik droomde dat je kwam’ Een prachtig en meeslepend boek vol verhalen over Papua, met een bijzondere mix van avontuur, cultuur en persoonlijke ontmoetingen. De auteur neemt je mee van Raja Ampat tot de Asmat, van Yapen tot de Vogelkop, in een warme en levendige vertelstijl. Inclusief fotokatern van Roy Villevoye. Prijs: €22,95 Gesigneerd exemplaar Kan worden meegezonden met de verzending, dus geen extra verzendkosten. Wordt het niet meegezonden, dan komt er €4,- bij.