Mask at Quai Branly, Paris

myminifactory

The mask conceals as much as it reveals, “denies as much as it affirms”, as Claude Lévi-Strauss boldly stated. Very often the keeper of a secret, the mask hides that which only the initiated should know. The mask's power also lies in its ability to bring spirits to life, a link between man and his ancestors, between the visible and invisible world. It is inseparable from a mythical context that structures the mode of existence and thought of most traditional societies. Central to the life of a group or community, the mask, an indispensable mediator, is always actively engaged. This mask originates from Papa New Guinea in the village of Hopmagum (north coast) and was crafted at the beginning of the 20th Century. It is made of wood and shows signs of pigment. The masks of this region circulate freely through exchange between the north coast and the islands. While forms of reference remain, such as the length of the nose and oblique eyes, there is a dynamic stylistic variation in names, colored patterns, and uses made of these masks from one group to another. This object is part of "Scan The World". Scan the World is a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory, through which we are creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from across the globe for public access at no cost. Scan the World is an open-source, community-driven effort, if you have interesting items around you and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to learn how you can help.