The Elema people of Papua Gulf once held elaborate masked rituals. Cloth masks on reed frames, used between Kerema and Orokolo, were central to dance cycles, while woven reed masks were common west of Orokolo. Tapa masks, known for their bright, dynamic appearance, are especially valued by collectors.

While certain masks held sacred significance, the Eharo masks, known as maea morava eharu or “things of joy,” were created primarily for entertainment, representing supernatural or humorous characters.

Cfr: The Metropolitan Art Museum (n° 1978.412.725).