Papua New Guinea Maskette, Kap Kap & Lime Container

Oceania, Melanesia, Papua New Guinea, ca. 1910 to 1920 CE; Sepik River region, Iatmul, ca. 1930 CE. A vibrant trio of traditional artifacts from Papua New Guinea, each reflecting the ingenuity, artistry, and cultural depth of its makers. The cylindrical bamboo lime container is finely incised with repeating geometric bands, its precise zigzag and linear motifs burned into the golden surface, still containing powdered lime once used for the ritual chewing of betel nut. The coconut shell spinning top, known locally as a kap kap, is carved with radiating lines on its domed surface and abstract curvilinear patterns on the underside, its balanced form designed for graceful, prolonged spins during games or ceremonial play. Completing the group is a small wooden maskette from the Iatmul people of the Sepik River region, its elongated visage painted in striking black, red, and white pigments, the incised details animating arched brows, narrowed eyes, and a wide, crescent-shaped mouth. Size of largest (maskette): 2" W x 8.1" H (5.1 cm x 20.6 cm)