Hand-Carved Wooden Dual-Face Moon Mask

This item is a hand-carved wooden mask, possibly representative of Southeast Asian or Oceanic folk art, featuring a unique dual-face or transitional design within an elongated, ovoid silhouette. The piece is crafted from a solid block of tropical hardwood, exhibiting a medium-to-dark honey-brown tone with a prominent, undulating grain pattern. The primary facial features include narrow, almond-shaped eye cutouts, a broad nose, and a wide, upturned smiling mouth. Distinctly, the upper portion of the mask repeats a set of carved lips and a partial nose, suggesting a layered or multi-dimensional persona. The surface displays a smooth, polished finish with a soft satin lustre, indicating careful sanding and oiling or waxing. Tool marks are visible in the recessed areas, such as the eyes and mouth corners, pointing to artisanal handwork rather than mass industrial production. The condition appears excellent with a rich natural patina and no visible cracks, chips, or major abrasions. The mask is shown resting within a woven seagrass or wicker basket against a slatted wood background, which complements its organic aesthetic. This piece likely dates from the late 20th century and serves as a significant decorative example of contemporary woodcarving craftsmanship.