Home > Oceania > Papua New Guinea > Related Images
Papua New Guinea - Elema people - Eharo Masks
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Papua New Guinea - Elema people - Eharo Masks
Elema people (of the Papuan Gulf in southeast New Guinea) practicing an elaborate cycle of masked rituals. These monumental Eharo masks were created primarily for amusement. To the Elema, eharo were " maea morava eharu" (" things of gladness" ), and were danced as a prelude to more sacred rituals. Eharo represented supernatural beings (as well as comedic figures), such as lecherous old men and were made and worn by young men from neighbouring villages (at the request of the village hosting the ceremony). As they entered the village, they were pelted with shredded coconut by the women to neutralize their seductive powers! Now rendered harmless, the eharo danced surrounded by large groups of women to the amusement of the assembled crowd. Date: circa 1920s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14395902
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Amazing Beings Ceremonial Ceremony Comedic Drum Elaborate Figurative Guinea Headdress Humourous Mask Masks Monumental Papua Papuan Population Reeds Supernatural Villagers
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph showcases the intriguing and humorous Eharo mask rituals of the Elema people from Papua New Guinea, circa 1920s. The Elema people, residing in the southeastern region of New Guinea along the Papuan Gulf, are renowned for their elaborate and comedic masked traditions. These monumental Eharo masks were primarily created for amusement and served as a prelude to more sacred rituals. Eharo masks were considered "maea morava eharu," or "things of gladness," and were worn by young men from neighboring villages at the request of the hosting village. As they entered the village, they were greeted with a barrage of shredded coconut from the women to neutralize their seductive powers. Once rendered harmless, the eharo dancers donned their extravagant headdresses and masks, often representing lecherous old men or other comedic figures, and danced surrounded by large groups of women. The Eharo masks are characterized by their large size, intricate designs, and the use of natural materials such as reeds. The masks' style and the accompanying drumming are truly amazing and reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Elema people. This photograph offers a glimpse into the traditional practices and indigenous population's vibrant and fascinating history.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
