Beater

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Description

heavy wood, dark brown patina, remains of red, white and indigo blue pigment, oval flattened head piece, beating area with decor in bas-relief, the handle carved with a crocodile head, two rattan cuffs (for suspension), slightly dam., minor missing parts, abrasion of paint, base;
such beaters with abundant decor were used for opening coconuts which the Iatmul used for ritual purposes.

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Comparing literature

Greub, Suzanne (ed.), Kunst am Sepik, Basel 1985, ill. 56 Kelm, Heinz, Kunst vom Sepik, Band III, Berlin 1968, ill. 487

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