Sepik River Ceremonial Shell and Seed Adornment with Carved Spirit Face in Custom Display Case Papua New Guinea Bell Collection

An impressive and visually striking ceremonial adornment from the Sepik River region of Papua New Guinea, professionally mounted for display. At its center is a finely carved hardwood spirit or ancestor face surrounded by an intricate circular arrangement of woven natural materials including cowrie shells, shell beads, carved seeds, and dark feather quills, all meticulously attached to a fiber net foundation.

The balanced radial design reflects the artistry and symbolism characteristic of Sepik ceremonial traditions, where elaborate body ornaments and dance regalia played important roles in community ceremonies, initiations, and ritual performances. The combination of organic materials creates remarkable texture while the carved face forms a powerful focal point.

Mounted against natural linen within a contemporary black frame, this piece is ready to hang and makes an exceptional display of Oceanic tribal art.

Provenance:

Gail Bell was a world traveler all of her life, having visited every continent on the planet. Along the way, she collected a plethora of art. She was director of many museums throughout her career, including the Mizel Museum and the St Louis Art Museum, where she was education director.