Oceania, Papua New Guinea, Boiken Area, ca. early 20th century CE. A beautifully hand-carved wooden garamut drum with anthropomorphic features and a zoomorphic handle. A short neck broadens into an imposing face; pursed lips under a beak-like nose, incised cheek lines, and two deeply set eyes under two arching brows that extend beneath the lip of the batter head. The angular features, and overly elongated face create an intense, glowering countenance. A perforation through the nose and ear were created to attach or suspend additional ornamentation. A zoomorphic handle on the backside with traces of yellow pigment in the teeth, perhaps a crocodile, connects its head and feet to the backside, and the tail ends in the batter head rim. The batter head resting on the tail and face, is smooth from pounding and use. Drums such as this were used for communication between villages to announce deaths, visitors, festivals, or warnings. The faces represent clan ancestors and the drums housed their soul. Size: 8.5" W x 18.125" H (21.6 cm x 46 cm); 20.25" H (51.4 cm) on included custom stand.
Published in Michael Hamson's book, "Art of the Boiken" on page 112.
Provenance: private Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA collection
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#157569
Condition
Old inventory label on the top. Missing an ear. Expected surface wear, chips, and abrasions commensurate with use and age. Beautiful patina and areas of remaining yellow pigment.