The Malangan collection (1885-1895): New Ireland, Papua New Guinea

The Malangan collection, acquired between 1885 and 1895, is one of the earliest in the world as well as one of the best, representing a wide variety of stylistic forms. The Malangan was an elaborate ceremonial system, focused mainly on the final rites for the deceased, and also on initiating boys who were to replace the dead as the clan members. The artefacts used in the ceremonies include various masks, free-standing figures, wall plaques of different forms, doll-like human figures, as well as other figures representing fish, birds, snakes, and supernatural beings.