Kilenge Nausang Singsing (West New Britain, 1977–1978): A VisuaI Essay
Abstract
In this visual essay, the author documents the Kilenge Nausang masks he photographed in 1977 and 1978 during a Nausang singsing in the Kilenge village cluster of Ulumainge, Waremo, and Saumoi in West New Britain. The Kilenge people describe the Nausang as a giant of extraordinary power, a being with an essentially malevolent character who serves a corrective function. The author also presents his photo-documentation of a Nausang mask depicted on the men’s house (naulum) in Potne, New Britain, as well as the construction of the men’s house.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies
Arts and Performance Studies
Indigenous Cultures and History
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Pacific Arts
- Volume
- 26
- Issue
- 1
- Publication date
- 25 February 2026
- Language
- EN