Bidspirit auction | Monumental Guinea Totem, Oceania -

Monumental Guinea Totem, Oceania - New Guinea - Made of plant fiber, early 20th century - 225 x 114 x 84 cm. This large body mask is a stunning example of Papua New Guinea ritual art. Its elongated conical structure, with outstretched arms and an anthropozoomorphic head, suggests its use in initiation rituals, community festivities, or shamanic ceremonies. The surface is decorated with a geometric herringbone pattern, composed of lines in ochre, white, and black tones, which emphasizes its visual presence during rituals. The stylized arms and small hands with open fingers suggest an animated figure, probably representing a spirit or tribal deity. At the bottom, dangling natural fibers can be seen, which would have provided movement and dynamism during its use in ceremonial dances. Materials and Techniques - Base structure: Woven plant fiber, possibly rattan or wicker. - Pigmentation: Natural paints obtained from clay, charcoal, and lime. - Decoration: Geometric herringbone patterns, a symbol of energy and protection. Body masks like this one are often associated with male initiation rituals, in which young men of the tribe underwent symbolic trials to be accepted as adults. They may also have been used in shamanic ceremonies or spirit invocations, in which mythical figures were incarnated to protect the community or promote successful harvests and hunts.