Tambunam people, Middle Sepik River area, PNG

48 inches, wood with natural pigments, shells, raffia border

Mwai masks are used in pairs on very large costumes' in boy’s initiation ceremonies. The Mwai instruct the initiates in the true names of the spirits and in their uses. Only the Mwai can call the Names without summoning the power of the Name. This particular mask is very large (4 feet), well decorated, and in excellent condition.