The Rom mask from Ambrym Island in Vanuatu is a significant cultural artifact with profound historical and spiritual importance. These masks are integral to the secret men’s societies of Vanuatu, known as the ‘mage’, which govern various aspects of social life. Each mask represents a specific ancestor spirit, often that of a grandfather, and is believed to provide a temporary resting place for these spirits during rituals . The craftsmanship of Rom masks is notable for their prismatic, triangular forms, often constructed from materials such as palm spathe, bamboo, coconut fiber, hemp, and pigments. They are adorned with long fiber ‘hair’ and sometimes feature elaborate crests made of feathers. These masks are not merely artistic creations but are central to ceremonial performances that affirm a man’s status and rights within the society This piece, with its refined composition and strong provenance, represents a unique intersection of art, culture, and history. A rare and collectible textile of museum quality. Selling worldwide, safely packed Sold by Koos Knol, ethnographer and anthropologist, dealer of Papua Tribal Art for more than 30 years, expert and author of the book “Papua Blues”, written in Dutch. (Maybe in English next year.)  Published end of October 2024 A book about inside stories, a book that deals with the many encounters with special people in West Papua, the impressive experiences that the author has, about special encounters with men and women who tell him about secret things, about ethnographic objects and initiate him into the rituals and ceremonies. A must have for collectors, ethnographers, ethnologists, anthropologists and museums Google: Papua Blues Koos Knol