Minneapolis Institute of Art

Mei Mask

Iatmul artist

Date

c. 1920

Medium

Wood, fibers, metal, shells, hair

Culture

Iatmul

Department

Arts of Oceania

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

This 'mei' mask represents a male ancestor of a Iatmul clan and would have been used for male initiation ceremonies. The elaborate design of encrusted cowrie shells frames the two-toned face and covers the beak-like mouth. When worn for a ceremonial dance, the mask was part of a large costume decorated with feathers, leaves, and other ornaments. Mei masks belonged to the clan and were stored in the homes of clan elders when not in use. Papua New Guinea, Oceania

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