Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
A Malagan mask is a type of ceremonial mask used by indigenous people from Papua New Guinea. These masks are intricately carved and painted, representing ancestral spirits and used in rituals related to death, mourning, and commemoration.
Related terms
Papua New Guinea: Papua New Guinea is a country located in Oceania, where Malagan masks originate from. It has diverse indigenous cultures with rich artistic traditions.
Ancestral Spirits: Ancestral spirits are believed to be deceased family members or important figures from the past who continue to have a presence and influence in the lives of their descendants.
Rituals are ceremonial actions or practices performed for specific purposes, often with symbolic meanings. In the case of Malagan masks, they are used in rituals related to death, mourning, and commemoration.