Canoe splashboard "damundam" ·  Papua New Guinea - Huon Gulf, Tami-Islands · ID: 3033657

Description

wood, min. remains of pigments from the original paint in red, black and white, board-shaped, incised ornamental decor, forming a stylized face, openwork design with bird sculptures on the upper rim, drilled holes for attachment, slightly dam., minor missing parts (backside), paint rubbed off, on plate;
such shields were attached straight across the boat, they should protect the passengers, not only of sputtering water, but of water spirits as well.

Comparing literature

Craig, Barry (ed.), Living spirits with fixed abodes, Honolulu 2010, p. 38