Artworks on Display
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Kovave Helmet Mask
Culture: Elema people of Orokolo, Papua New Guinea
Medium: Tree bark (tapa), raffia, sago palm, pigments.Description:
This tall, helmet-like mask is a kovave created by the Elema people of Orokolo, located in the eastern gulf. The kovave consists of a cane frame, covered in bark cloth. Attached to this would be a skirt of frayed, sago palm leaves so that the dancer’s identity would be obscured. This large mask represents the spirits of the bush and is used in male initiation ceremonies. The young initiate is lured into the forest and the mask (fashioned by his maternal uncle) is slapped over his head. At this time, the boy is taught the esoteric knowledge of the men’s society. The kovave then appears each morning on the beach to chase anyone who happens along. At the end of the multi-day ceremony, the masks are destroyed. The ceremonial initiations are no longer conducted; this mask was made as a reminder of that past.
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