Master Art

A small very fine and elegant ceremonial suspension hook carved using the natural branches of a sapling. The classical elongated head representing an ancestor (perhaps wearing a bird-like mask) with the sharply pointed chin and cheek studs, shows tear-drop eyes and a long beak-like nose. The hook is pierced under the head behind the chin for suspension. The face is painted with lime and there are traces all over of a red ocher wash. The patina shows a thin accumulation of soot. Aitape coastline, North Coast, P.N.G.,