Abelam Ceremonial Yam Mask Baba glass The history of African trade

The history of African trade beads expanded dramatically from the 15th century onward

The Cypro-geometric

known as an unguentaria (also referred to as unguentarium

buti figures were used for protection against witchcraft

An absolutely fascinating hand-carved wooden ceremonial mask depicting a simple ovoid visage with narrow slits for the eyes and mouth

Abelam Ceremonial Yam Mask Baba glass The history of African tradeAbelam people, mid. 20th century, Maprik district, East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea. Mesmerizing, tightly woven yam mask (baba, also known as bapamini) from the Abelam people of the Prince Alexander Mountains in the Sepik region of northeast New Guinea. This traditional mask is crafted from wild vine (Lygodium) fiber and features a prominent ridge for the nose, concentric rings for the eyes, and an elaborate crest adorned with zigzag patterns.