Amulet Figure
Korwar, Geelvink Bay, West Papua, Early 20th century
Provenance: Old European collection
Korwars are a link between the dead and the living: hosts of the deceased’s spirit, they can be summoned with offerings to provide advice in time of important decisions (war expedition, important fishing trip). During the mourning period, the deceased body is draped in a red shroud, evoked on this particular korwar with the red textile piece still wrapping it. This amulet has a protective purpose for its bearer. Note the very fine carving of the face and the elegance of the stylized limbs. The amulet is pierced with a fiber cord that is adorned with two European glass trade beads and a bone attachment.
Amulet Figure
Korwar, Geelvink Bay, West Papua, Early 20th century
Provenance: Old European collection
Korwars are a link between the dead and the living: hosts of the deceased’s spirit, they can be summoned with offerings to provide advice in time of important decisions (war expedition, important fishing trip). During the mourning period, the deceased body is draped in a red shroud, evoked on this particular korwar with the red textile piece still wrapping it. This amulet has a protective purpose for its bearer. Note the very fine carving of the face and the elegance of the stylized limbs. The amulet is pierced with a fiber cord that is adorned with two European glass trade beads and a bone attachment.