Unknown Artist; Malagan Mask; ca. 1870 - 1890; polychrome; wood; natural fiber; 16 1/8 in. x 12 1/2 in. x 8 5/8 in. (41 cm. x 31.8 cm. x 21.9 cm.); The Malagan ceremony takes place among the tribes of New Ireland; an island off the coast of Papua New Guinea. The ritual is meant to complete the cycle of mourning for those who have died; sending off their spirits that are represented through masks like these; as well as through painted panels and other sculptures. They were used during the elaborate ceremonies; which sometimes last days and include trade; feasting; music; song; and dance. Once the ritual is completed the masks lose their power and meaning; and are no longer needed. Traditionally they were burned; but with the increased presence of Europeans in the late nineteenth century; Melanesians realized they could sell the sculptures to the visiting westerners hungry for 'exotic' ritual objects from cultures around the world.