A Central Asmat bisj pole.

Availability: In Stock

A Central Asmat bisj pole.
Stock Number:
t3186
$ 4350.00

Description

A Central Asmat bisj pole.
Totems of this type were used in a ceremony called bisj mbu, in which living warriors avenged the spirits of the dead. The carving acts as a symbolic canoe which allows safe conduct of the spirits to the realm of the dead.
Ex Private Collection of George Macdonald, formerly Curator at Museum Victoria, Melbourne.
Loss evident on lower figure and extension portion of sculpture.
Accompanied by a steel display stand.

 

Origin:

Central Asmat, Irian Jaya

Dimensions:

Height: 257 cm

Due to the size or weight of this item, please contact us directly if you are interested in purchasing it.