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Oceania Astrolabe Bay, Papua New Guinea Mask Before 1925 Wood, pigment, incrustation H. 16 in. (40.6 cm) Raymond and Laura Wielgus Collection Objects associated with youth initiations, such as this mask, are found in many parts of Oceania and Africa. These initiations, which may last several months and often include periods of seclusion, are the rites by which young men and/or women receive the training and education necessary to be considered adult members of their communities. In addition to appearing at initiations, this mask was also worn at dances of a secret men's cult, of which little is known. The circular projections on the mask represent shell and tusk ornaments. |