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Carved Wood Hook Figure Papua New Guinea

Origin

Papua New Guinea

Period

1920-1949

Materials

wood

Dimensions

W.	8 in;	H.	26.5 in;	D.	2.5 in;
W.	20.32 cm;	H.	67.31 cm;	D.	6.35 cm;

Condition

Good. Overall wear and patina; losses of some tassels.

Creation Date

1950s

Description

The elaborated carved wood figure with hooks was widely used by indigenous people to suspend items and foods in their huts across Papua New Guinea, mostly along the Sepik River. The piece on offer was likely from the Mid Sepik River region circa 1950s. The upper portion centers on a hooked roundel that extends down to a stem with stylized chevron patterns. The lower portion is a bifurcated with a facial design. The wood was stained black and the reliefs were outline in contrast with white lime powder hook. Some tassels remains not sure if they are original. The design on the front and the back are identical and executed with same details, suggesting the piece would have been used in the middle of the room not against a wall. An old metal tag with a catalog number remained on the lower extremity of the piece as shown.

Styles / Movements

Bespoke, Traditional, Tribal

Patterns

Abstract, Animal/Insects, Geometric, Handmade

Incollect Reference Number

458423