Malekula Island Ritual Mask

Art

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Name/Title

Malekula Island Ritual Mask

Entry/Object ID

MK_0217

Description

This striking ritual mask hails from the southern Malekula island in Vanuatu (formerly New Hebrides) situated east of Australia. Boldly carved, this wooden head mask features striking human faces on two sides, offering a captivating glimpse into the intricate traditions of the region. Many of the peoples of Vanuatu, including those of Malekula, engage in complex men's secret societies. These societies follow a nuanced system of ritual "grades," traversed by individuals through initiation rites, festivals, and pig sacrifices. The goal is to ascend to higher religious and social status. Among the many grade societies, Nimangki and Nalawan hold prominence in Malekula. The rituals associated with these societies involve the creation of vividly carved and painted figures and masks. These artistic representations depict powerful spirits and supernatural beings, serving as tangible embodiments of the intricate belief systems that shape the spiritual and social landscapes of the Vanuatu peoples. Likely used in one of such secret societies, this mask's featuring two faces could symbolize the dual nature of beings or the merging of opposing forces in the culture's worldview. These masks, often worn during ceremonies and initiations, may represent the blending of human and animal spirits, or the interplay of good and evil, life and death. The two-faced design may also reflect the concept of transformation, where individuals adopt the form of another being to access their powers or capabilities. It's presence in the Mauna Kea embodies a profound connection to these cultural traditions, inviting contemplation of the sacred and symbolic. This treasured piece has been in the Mauna Kea's collection since 1965, when Laurance Rockefeller developed the hotel, and was very recently restored.

Artwork Details

Medium

Wood

Made/Created

Artist

Malekula People

Place

Country

Vanuatu (formerly New Hebrides)

Continent

Oceania

Dimensions

Height

19 in

Length

10 in

Main Tower