Yam Masks from New Guinea

Note:
With the high cost of shipping many of our customers choose to ship by USPS. For small and light shipments this is usually less expensive, but please be aware that their estimates are often wrong and only include insurance up to $100 for its domestic shipments. If you ask for full insurance we will recalculate the shipping cost and send you an invoice for any difference in cost.

Yam Masks from New Guinea

Masks are used to cover long yams in a ceremony showing the men's gardening prowess. It is of utmost importance in the culture. the Abelam believe only men can grow long yams. Their success is dependent not only on hard work, but complete abstinence from contact with women during the six month growing period, and spiritual assistance from ancestors. A fine yam is named for the ancestral spirit and that spirit is brought into being by the mask and decoration.

Masks of the World by Douglas Congdon-Martin and Jim Pieper, Schiffer Pub. 1999