New Caledonian (culture or style)

Describes the various types of artwork created by the aboriginal communities of the New Caledonian Islands. The people of New Caledonia are known for their male ceremonial houses and Kanak masks. The ceremonial house is circular in structure and is bordered with coconut palms and araucaria. The Kanak mask is made up of a black wooden face with a prominent nose that extends over a laughing mouth, which forms a space for the wearer to see. The complete costume is comprised of a large headpiece in turban form made of human hair and a cloak made of notu pigeon feathers. The mask is utilized during commemorative ceremonies in order to signal the end of the ceremony.