An Early Large and Fine Bahinemo ‘Garra’ Hook Mask

An Early Large and Fine Bahinemo ‘Garra’ Hook Mask
Wood, natural pigments
Hunstein Mountain Range
Papua New Guinea

Early 20th Century

Provenance:
Ex German collection
Ex Lord van Bussel, Amsterdam
Ex Reinier Lucassen, Amsterdam

Literature:
Published in the catalogue; GrossBild, Overeenkomsten en verschillen in hedendaagse westerse en niet-westerse kunst in Oss (illustrated pg. 67)

Exhibited:
GrossBild, Overeenkomsten en verschillen in hedendaagse westerse en niet-westerse kunst, 18th January to 18th April, 1993, Oss

note:
This exquisite ‘garra’ mask embodies the extraordinary surrealism and abstract form found in the artwork from the Bahinemo culture. The mask is meticulously carved, likely without the aid of metal tools, in a dense hardwood in a flat, oval, tray-like shape. It features three concentric circles bordering the face, with two cylindrical projecting eyes, with a diminutive pierced mouth, off centre. Two hook elements point downward, while two further hooks point upwards. The mask with a pigment decorated surface the front, weathered greyish to brown surface to the reverse, suggesting a considerable age.