Figural suspension hook ·  Papua New Guinea, Iatmul · ID: 3036481

Description

wood, greyish brown patina, white pigment, eyes with turquoise bead inlay, carved as a standing female ancestor figure (which is rarely to be found), the scarification on the belly indicates that she is an initiated woman, slightly dam., missing parts (right alar wing, both ears and feet), traces of insect caused damage backside, abrasion of paint, base;
only suspension hooks which were used in mens houses were such elaborately sculpted as representations of important ancestors and mythical beings. Their main function was the protection the hooks gave as intermediaries to the inhabitant ancestral spirits. Suspension hooks for daily use were simple. They were hung from rafters or eves, with valuable foods and personal items hung on their hooks, keeping them away from the numerous vermin.

Comparing literature

Meyer, Anthony J.P., Ozeanische Kunst, Vol. I, Köln 1995, p. 229, ill. 242