Spear thrower "wawi a kaino"
Papua New Guinea, Iatmul
not available anymore
Provenance
Julius Konietzko, Hamburg, GermanySize
L: 68 cm
L: 26.8 inch
Description
bamboo shaft, a wooden figure (crocodile) attached by rotan cuff, slightly dam., cracks;
the “wawi a kaino” is a functional spear thrower. It is used to enhance the power, thrust and accuracy of the warrior’s arm. The guide is carved as a representation of the giant mythological crocodile who gave birth to the Iatmul people.