K14 Early Abelam Figure Nggwalndu Maprik Sepik River Area PNG

Item #                 .K15

Description      .Abelam Figure (Nggwalndu)  collected in 1951 by a Malaria Control Officer. These figures were kept in the ceremonial house and hidden from women and the uninitiated children. Each Nggwalndu is named and represents a specific clan ancestor. Made to protect the people from harm, give strength to initiated men, and promote the growth of yams. The bird on the figure’s head signifies the mythical relationship between human and animal world. This figure, which has a great face, appears to have only ever been partially painted in natural ochres.

Size                       .82cm * 12cm (32″ * 5″)

Price                    USD$525