Neck Rest

Murik Lakes, Papua New Guinea
19th-early 20th c

Provenance: Leo Fortess, Hawaii.
Seymour Lazar, Palm Springs, CA.

Exhibited: Honolulu Academy of Arts, sometime in the 1960’s, Inv. L No. 27.484 

This wooden neck rest from the Murik Lakes region in Papua New Guinea is a wonderful artifact that provides insight into the cultural practices of the region’s inhabitants. This neck rest is not just a functional object, but also a beautiful work of art that showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of the Murik people. The neck rest is adorned with finely carved masks at both ends, each that terminate with animal heads. The masks are a representation of ancestral spirits, which the Murik people believe provide protection to the wearer. The neck rest is also colored with red pigment, which is believed to have a symbolic meaning in Murik culture. The color red is associated with life force, vitality, and fertility, all of which are considered essential elements in their way of life. The use of red pigment, therefore, emphasizes the significance of the neck rest as a life-giving object. Underneath the neck rest, there are curving designs that are carved into the wood, which further emphasizes the importance of aesthetics in Murik culture. The intricate designs and the raised open-worked scalloped design that runs underneath the center are testaments to the exceptional skills of the Murik people in woodcarving. The attachments that originally dangled down from the center of the neck rest would have been significant adornments that complemented the overall aesthetic quality of the piece.

Length: 22 in / 55.9 cm