#12 • Temes ne Vinu Ceremonial Mask

Part of Professor’s Collection Part One: Pacific & Pre-Columbian Artifacts (live auction by Blue Box Auction Gallery)

High bid $85.00

Status: Sold

Estimated Value: $200-300 Origin: Malekula island, Vanuatu, Melanesia Dimensions: 8x11x5 in. Condition: The shows wear from age, with some cracked areas of the mask and loosening of the tusks around the mask itself.  Additional Information: This Temes ne Vinu ceremonial mask, is a traditional mask from Vanuatu region and was used in ceremonies, rituals and dances often associated with the Nimangki grade-taking system which was a form of social stratification and progression within the community. In Vanuatu culture, value is placed on pig ownership as well as the amount of planting area for yams and other tubers. The mask is made of natural materials like fern, or clay and is colored with natural pigments. Likely boar tusks are on the mouth area and likely some hair or fibers added for texture. The mask features grotesque features and is designed to represent ancestral spirits or bush spirits. It is round in shape with bold blue and red coloring with white eyes, said to be influenced by culture and related to the status and achievements of the wearer within the community.