Mask (Mai)
The distinctive mai masks of the Iatmul people of the Middle Sepik region are characterized by oblong faces with elongated noses that often merge into arch-like forms that join the nose to the chin or extend below it. Mai masks are carved and danced in pairs, portraying elder and younger supernatural siblings, either brothers or sisters. Worn by young men and boys, the masks are attached to conical basketry costumes that cover the dancer’s head and upper body. Mai mask performances begin with the construction of a fenced compound. Within it, the men build a raised platform, with a backdrop depicting the mountains where, according to oral tradition, the masks originated, and a ramp that extends over the wall to the ground outside. As the performance begins, the mai maskers burst from behind the backdrop and stride down the ramp. Reaching the ground outside, they are joined by the women, who accompany them to the dancing ground, where a lengthy performance ensues before the dancers finally retire into the men’s ceremonial house.
Artwork Details
- Title: Mask (Mai)
- Date: 19th–early 20th century
- Geography: Papua New Guinea, Middle Sepik River
- Culture: Iatmul peoples
- Medium: Wood, pigment, shell
- Dimensions: H. 12 1/4 × W. 3 1/2 × D. 3 1/2 in. (31.1 × 8.9 × 8.9 cm)
- Classification: Wood-Sculpture
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1974
- Object Number: 1974.29.2
- Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing
More Artwork
Research Resources
The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.
To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.
Feedback
We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.