ETHNOGRAPHIC ART AND ARTEFACTS
Friday, 14 - Monday, 24 March 2025
A rare old Vanuatu circumcision initiation ritual large panel
Estimate $600 - $1,200
Realised: $500 plus premium
Lot Details
the thick large single wooden panel with three applied rows of four stylised masks constructed from natural fibrous material and coloured natural pigments, with some faults. Suspension hole to the top. Symbolising the transition from adolescence to adulthood. 600 x 50 x 1000mm. With some loose parts present and two notes. One detailing ancestors, spirits etc. The other 'Mambatravai kimkim ceremonial plaque for circumcision rituals... Kimkim were displayed in the village of Vienbabab, home of the Bobgale.... By the end of 1978 only three old men had the right to make such pieces. This piece was most likely made by Valanguaroa, originally from Vienbabap.' (Spelling?).
