This is a wooden Asmat carving which likely formed part of a much larger bis pole used in funerary ceremonies. It is painted in various shades of white and red pigments, which cover the entire surface of the piece. The carving was made from a very light-colored sago wood with little density. The entire piece comprises swirling geometric designs punctuated by human faces on the exterior frame. There are eight layers, each with two swirls and two human heads at the border between the layers. Much of the white pigment has worn away, but remnants remain in the chalky covering. There is damage to the top frame of the piece, indicated by a marked spot of weathering.
Elaborate carvings such as this are prominently seen displayed as upper portions of bis poles, which are used in funerary ceremonies throughout Asmat culture. Bis poles are erected in the event of a person’s death, with images of the deceased’s ancestors displayed prominently. These poles are erected in a manner so that the spirits of the ancestors will watch over the home in a mock battle. Once the death of the deceased individual has been avenged through headhunting, the bis poles are removed from outside the home and often discarded in the rainforest so that the spirits which inhabit them may help rejuvenate the sago trees which provide life for Asmat communities.
Colors: White, Red, Brown, Black