This is a large rectangular wooden Asmat carving decorated with three figures and flying fox insignias. The entire piece is unpainted and is made of red/brown wood with very prominent grain which runs up the length of the piece. Stretching from each end of the piece and connecting both ends is a support frame made from brass and plastic. This frame is unoriginal and was likely attached at some point after acquisition for hanging the piece on a wall or other display rack. The back of the piece also features a circular pinhole between the brass brace, likely unoriginal. It also features a oval-shaped groove in the upper right quadrant which is either an imperfection in the wood itself or is the result of animal damage. The entire front of the piece is adorned with swirling geometric patterns carved in relief, which fill the surface and frame three figures near the center of the piece. The first figure is at the center of the piece, and is bent on hands and knees in a kneeling position. The other two figures are emerging from either side of the frame from below the central figure, each with their knees bent and elbows resting on their knees. All three of the figures are stylized with simple muscle lines and facial definition. It is unclear what sex they are. The swirling patterns on the rest of the piece are stylized interpretations of flying foxes, which are common in Papua New Guinea.
It is unclear whether this piece served as a shield or other form of ceremonial carving. The lack of handle and relatively lightweight construction points to it either being a ceremonial shield or a decorative piece for ancestor veneration. However, the design shares many key elements commonly found on Asmat shields in many communities. The lack of a wedge at the bottom supports the idea of it being a shield. It is also questionable whether the figures depicted in relief are human ancestors or praying mantises. If this is a shield, it may be likely that they are praying mantises associated with vicious attack.
Colors: Brown, Black