- Malagan display and mask
- New Ireland Province, Papua New Guinea
- c. 20th century CE
- wood, pigment, fiber, shell
Malangan Ceremonies
- “malanggan” refers to both funeral rites and displays
- “malagan” means likeness, or to inscribe by carving
- occurred in New Ireland Province
- north of Papua New Guinea
- secondary funeral
- finished the dead, sending them off
- feasting
- exhibition of malagan objects
- only masks and musical instruments are reused
- promotion of solidarity and economic stimulation
- include young male initiation
- cycle of young adults and deceased
- ceremony is very expensive for purchasing masks
Malagan Objects
- displayed at climax of ceremony
- images and motifs representing clan mythology and individuals
- spiritual esoteric meaning
- motifs are a way to connect with the dead by being reminded
- represent specific identity of dead, not a portrait
- “biksolwara” the deep sea final destination of disposal
- sculptures are burned or rot
- to prevent manipulation of sorcery
- sometimes sold to tourists
Tantanua Dance
- formal line dance
- masculinity of masked dancers
- wear the malagan mask
- show the vitality of strength in face of death and misfortune
- tantanua is organized
- music is selected
- masks are rented from a maker
- masks have creative sculpture rights
- can not be copied by local law
- painted wood
- mixed animal motifs
- ancestral or mystic figures
- variety of pattern
- large red and yellow crests of hair
- hairstyle signifies bereavement
- sides of head are shaved
- red, black, white coloration
- signify warfare, powerful magic and killed spirits
- may include fish or birds