Ceremonial Ancestor Sago Scoop Papua New Guinea

Description

A large sago scoop that is likely reserved for ceremonial use during harvest, circa first half of the 20th century, … more A large sago scoop that is likely reserved for ceremonial use during harvest, circa first half of the 20th century, the piece is from Maprik, East Sepik Provence of Papua New Guinea. The front of the scoop features an anthropomorphic figure that is the yam ancestor, worshiped widely in the region. His body elongates into a handle that might also be used as a pounder. The concave shape toward the back, a natural shape of the trunk, form the scoop. The piece is carved from black palm, a hardwood like palm that exhibits cable-like black fibers. There are evident patina and wear from use on the handle as well as the back of the piece, suggesting native use. It retains an original paper label that shows the provenance and gallery info.
The steel stand is complimentary. less