Collections: Arts of Africa and the Pacific Islands: Mask (Rom)

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Mask (Rom)

The prismatic form of this striking mask is characteristic of rom masks from Ambrym Island in Vanuatu. It is made of fiber and cane thickly plastered with a vegetable paste and painted in the bright and unusual color combinations characteristic of these islands. Long fiber "hair" is fixed to the sides and base of the mask. Such masks are part of an elaborate system of masks and hats worn by members of the secret men's organizations that regulate almost all aspects of social life in Vanuatu. Each grade or rank within these societies has its own mask type. When they are in use, the masks are believed to provide a temporary resting place for the spirits of immediate ancestors, most specifically, the grandfather.


• Medium: Palm spathe, bamboo, coconut fiber, hemp, pigment
• Place Made: Vanuatu, Ambrym Island
• Dates: 19th century
• Dimensions: 37 3/4 x 8 x 9 in. (95.9 x 20.3 x 22.9 cm)
• Collections: Arts of Africa and the Pacific Islands
• Museum Location: This item is not on view
• Accession Number: 86.229.5
• Credit Line: Gift of Evelyn A. J. Hall and John A. Friede
• Image: Overall, 86.229.5_SL1.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph
Mask (Rom), 19th century. Palm spathe, bamboo, coconut fiber, hemp, pigment, 37 3/4 x 8 x 9 in. (95.9 x 20.3 x 22.9 cm). Brooklyn Museum, 86.229.5 (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 86.229.5_SL1.jpg)