This is a wooden Asmat platter carved in the shape of a dugout canoe, likely produced in Papua New Guinea in the late twentieth century. It is entirely unpainted and features a very dark brown coloration throughout. The sides are decorated with elaborate geometric zig-zag patterns, terminating at either end with a head carved into the prow. At the center of the canoe are two heads facing upwards. The features on all four of the heads on display are simplistic, with recessed brows and protruding noses. The sides of the piece have suffered some wear over the years but overall remains in excellent condition.
Due to the appearance of head imagery, it is likely that this piece was produced during the time of headhunting in Asmat society. Before foreign missionaries suppressed the practice in the late twentieth century, headhunting was a common means of avenging death in communities. Death was never unnatural, either the result of hostile spirits or magic attacks from an enemy tribe. Headhunting raids were performed to collect the heads of enemies in order to restore balance to communities. The brains of headhunted foes were often served as food at ceremonial gatherings after a death in order for the consumer to be granted the dead foe’s power. Platters such as this were used to serve the brain matter before the banning of the practice. After headhunting’s suppression, platters were transitioned into serving roasted sago palm and Capricorn beetles as a replacement for human brain matter.
Colors: Black, Brown