2000.2.36 (Carving, ancestor)

This is a large wooden Asmat ancestor figure carved in Papua New Guinea in the second half of the twentieth century. It features two human figures standing next to each other, with one significantly smaller than the other. The smaller figure stands with legs joined at the feet and hands clasped together at the midsection. It features no distinctive genitalia carvings and a very wide neck which forms the shoulders. Its face is oblong with a toothed smile, sunken eyes, and hooked nose. The larger figure is standing behind the smaller figure, hunched over its head. This figure features female genitalia carvings at the waist, and is clasping either side of its face with its hands. Its face is very animated with expression. The right eye is elevated higher than the left. It has a prominent hairline, hooked nose, and wide toothed smile. Both figures are joined together at the feet, making them a single art piece. There is little trace of paint left, with bits of white scattered throughout. Otherwise, the piece features a very dark brown complexion.

Figures such as this are often produced in Asmat culture for depicting ancestral figures for commemorative or ceremonial purposes. Often, they are made when an individual of a community dies, as a means of representing the ancestors of the deceased. In other instances, they are carved to honor the ancestors during building dedications and festival events. After their intended function has been carried out, carvings are often discarded in the rainforests so that the spirits which inhabit them may rejuvenate the sago trees.

Colors: Brown, Black, White

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