Plaited mask, Abelam culture

This mask is worn in combination with a costume made of sago palm leaves. The masked men run through the village with a spear in their hands in order to scare and chase away the women and children because they are not allowed to see the preparations for the initiation ritual. It is also used during the initiation itself.

47,5 x 26 x 34cm (18 11/16 x 10 1/4 x 13 3/8in.)

Source: collectie.tropenmuseum.nl