ganda (Mask)
About this object
History of use
The ganda, or gibi-gibi, was worn by warriors during battle and on ceremonial occassions. A small bar at the back of the mask could be gripped between the teeth to hold it around one's face. When not being worn, the mask would hang on the chest as a body ornament.
Physical description
Near circle of 18 boar's teeth, bound together with fibre through a hole bored at the gum end. Layer of printed paper over the fibre binding, then layer of thick dark red substance with a layer of clear yellow adhesive over. Impressed into the dark red substance and adhesive are a semi-circle of red seeds (1.5 x 1 cm), surrounded by white shells (0.8 x 0.5 cm). The tips of the teeth opposite the decorated section also have holes bored. Reverse is undecorated. Wooden bar wrapped in plant fibre on reverse, 5 cm from bottom of decorated edge.
Date Made
C. 1973
Date Acquired
20 Apr 2004
How Acquired
Donated
Credit Line
Ms. Susan and Dr. Abraham Ross CollectionMore...
Measurements
Overall: 18 x 22 x 2.5 cm
Object Number
2623/4