Korwar Figure

Schouten Island, West Papua
19th c.

Provenance: Collected by Dutch missionary F.J.F. Van Hasselt
Utrecht Missionary Society before 1907
Jac Hoogerbrugge, The Netherlands

Korwar figures were primarily created to serve as vessels for ancestral spirits. After a person died, especially if they were of high status or had a significant role in the community, a korwar figure would be carved to house their spirit. These figures were then consulted for guidance, protection, and blessings. Shamans or ritual specialists would use them in ceremonies to communicate with the spirits and seek advice, particularly in times of crisis, illness, or important decision-making. In some cases, particularly with block-style korwar figures, they were wrapped in cotton cloth. This practice, likely symbolized the containment of the spirit within the figure, preventing it from wandering and ensuring it remained with the community. The cloth may have also served as a barrier to shield onlookers or handlers from the spiritual force contained within the figure, as spirits were believed to possess great power. Its in excellent condition. The exposed wood has a dark grey, semi-encrusted surface.