Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea Wood Sepik River tribal figure Circa 1960's

Papua New Guinea Wood Sepik River tribal figure Circa 1960's
Papua New Guinea Wood Sepik River tribal figure Circa 1960's
Papua New Guinea Wood Sepik River tribal figure Circa 1960's
Papua New Guinea Wood Sepik River tribal figure Circa 1960's
Papua New Guinea Wood Sepik River tribal figure Circa 1960's
Papua New Guinea Wood Sepik River tribal figure Circa 1960's
Papua New Guinea Wood Sepik River tribal figure Circa 1960's
Papua New Guinea Wood Sepik River tribal figure Circa 1960's
Papua New Guinea Wood Sepik River tribal figure Circa 1960's
Papua New Guinea Wood Sepik River tribal figure Circa 1960's
Papua New Guinea Wood Sepik River tribal figure Circa 1960's

Papua New Guinea Wood Sepik River tribal figure Circa 1960's
Figures often represent deities or ancestral heroes and are typically kept in ceremonial houses. The Iatmul people, who live along the Sepik River, are known for these elaborately carved sculptures with painted curvilinear designs. Figures like this were essential to the community's well-being and were often associated with headhunting practices. Some figures, known as "yipwon, " were used as amulets for success in hunting and battle. The style and imagery can vary among different groups in the Sepik region, such as the lower Ramu area and the Murik people. These carvings are made for ceremonies, everyday use, and trade, reflecting the human life on the Sepik River.
Papua New Guinea Wood Sepik River tribal figure Circa 1960's