An Exceptional Murik Mask, brag sebug Murik Lagoon, Coastal Sepik River, East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea, c. mid-19th century An important large warrior spirit (brag sebug) mask from the well known collection of Dr. Edmund Muller (Swiss, 1898-1976) who carefully collected art brought back from expeditions in the 19th century. He was known for his eye for quality and authenticity during the early years of collecting tribal art in Europe. This mask is expertly carved from heavy wood, with stone adze marks on the back. The front was finished by polishing with sand and leaves, and was once covered with brown, black, and white natural pigments, much of which has flaked off over the past century. In very good condition aside from the flaked pigments and chips on the beard, a stable crack down the proper left cheek. For wearing as a mask, a stick for gripping in the mouth is lashed on with cane at back. Provenance: A Private Collection, New York, NY, acquired in 1998 Sotheby's New York, November 22, 1998, lot 39 Dr. Edmund Muller (1898 - 1976), Beromunster, Switzerland. Muller accession number 3386. A paper label attached on back. Height: 22 ¾ inches HID03101062020 © 2023 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

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