This is a wooden Asmat carving which depicts four individuals in an interconnected embrace. The entire piece is unpainted, and is made of very dark wood with subtle grain running throughout. It is unclear whether the figures are male or female, as they lack the characteristic genitalia carvings commonly found in other Asmat carvings. All four share similar characteristics and features, but vary in proportions. Each feature a wide smiling mouth with a prominent brow and long nose. The eyes of all four figures are simply carved circular shapes with little definition. Across the bodies of all the figures are carved lines indicated stylized musculature. These lines run throughout the piece and are equally placed in proportion to one another. The entire piece is in good condition, with only minimal damage to the feet of two figures.
While this carving may depict ancestor figures, it is unclear for what occasion it was produced. It does not share similarities with bis poles or other funerary carvings, but does share similarities with other Asmat carvings of abstract human forms. The craftsmanship displayed in the piece is very high quality, as indicated by the mostly intact finish. Ancestor reverence plays a dominant role in Asmat society, as the spirits of the deceased are believed to interact with the natural world in a cyclical manner.
Colors: Brown, Black