19" Sepik River Ancestral Spirit Mask | Iatmul, Papua New Guinea | Ron Perry Provenance

3363-019

Offered for sale is a compelling 19.5-inch ancestral spirit mask from the Middle Sepik River region of Papua New Guinea, acquired directly from the Ron Perry Arizona Room collection. Known traditionally across localized clan networks, masks of this profile are carved by the Iatmul people to embody powerful ancestor spirits or totemic deities. This expressive example is hand-carved from a single piece of indigenous wood and features an elongated, tapered face characterized by concentric eye motifs, geometric low-relief carving, and a stylized nose reminiscent of sacred river bird totems. The surface is decorated with natural earth pigments, showcasing traditional ochre, clay, and charcoal symmetry.

The mask was field-collected by Ron Perry, a globally renowned expert and one of the most respected Pacific tribal art authorities of the 20th century. Beginning his expeditions in 1964, Perry spent over 40 years traveling by canoe up remote waterways and trekking unmapped terrains to collect authentic pieces directly from traditional clans. His credibility in the field is unmatched: following Papua New Guinea's independence in 1975, the PNG National Cultural Council appointed him to manage Village Arts, their government-run indigenous artifact center. This is an outstanding display piece with classic symmetry, striking organic details, and authentic character, making it an exceptional addition to any collection of Oceanic, ethnographic, or tribal art.

Item Details:

Object: Ancestral Spirit Mask

Culture: Iatmul

Village: Tambanum Village

Region: Middle Sepik River, Papua New Guinea

Period: Mid to Late 20th Century

Dimensions: 19.5" H × 6.5" W × 3" D (49.5 × 16.5 × 7.6 cm)

Materials: Indigenous wood, natural earth pigments (ochre, clay, charcoal)

Provenance: Acquired directly from the Ron Perry Arizona Room collection

Condition Note: This piece exhibits authentic, stable aging, beautiful native patination, and minor surface wear consistent with age and traditional craftsmanship. Please review all photographs carefully, as they are an important part of the description.

This is available for local pick-up. Shipping can be available for this item. Please contact us for a custom quote or to make arrangements.