Vintage Papua New Guinea Sepic River Spirit Mask Cowrie Shell Eyes Hand Carved

Authentic vintage hand-carved wooden Papua New Guinea spirit mask from the Sepik River region, attributed to Latmul-style tradition. This expressive oval mask features original cowrie shell eyes, natural earth-tone pigments, and a woven rattan / fiber perimeter binding, all consistent with mid-20th-century Sepik craftsmanship. The surface shows layered hand-applied pigments with abstract swirling motifs, along with age-appropriate wear, patina, and minor cracks that add to its character and authenticity. The rattan edging remains largely intact, and the shell eyes are securely set.

A metal hanging loop has been added for display, typical of export or collector mounting. This piece displays beautifully and would make an excellent addition to a collection of Oceanic, tribal, or ethnographic art. Origin: Papua New Guinea, Sepik River region. Style: Latmul-style spirit / ancestor mask.

Border: Woven rattan / fiber binding. 12 inches long (see photos for measurements). Condition: Vintage condition with age-related wear, surface cracks, and pigment loss; structurally sound. This mask is offered as a vintage Sepik River mask. No written provenance is available. Tribal attribution is based on stylistic characteristics and should be considered Latmul-style rather than a definitive ceremonial classification.

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