Skip to main content
Object Number
61-53-70/3951
Display Title
Carved wooden ancestor figure (kawe) - approx. 31" high
Descriptions
Object Description
Carved wooden ancestor figure (kawe) - approx. 31" high
Tall wood figure carved in stylized likeness of woman with arms bent at elbows, hands held to chest. The figure has a pierced nose and open mouth. The carving is in high-relief and intricate in detail, especially on the back which is carefully carved in an organic design. A dark pigment(s) or dye(s) has been rubbed into the wood which is marked with evidence of tool working. Remnant white pigment can be seen in isolated areas and interstices.
Department
Ethnographic
Culture
- Asmat
Geography/Provenience/Site Name
Oceania
/
Indonesia
/
Western New Guinea
/
Irian Jaya
/
New Guinea
/
Village of Otsjanep
Materials
Wood, Pigment
Dimensions
Overall: 77 x 13 x 11.5 cm (30 5/16 x 5 1/8 x 4 1/2 in.)
Important Note about Historical Language
Collections records may contain language, reflecting past collecting practices and methods of analysis, that is no longer acceptable. The Peabody Museum is committed to addressing the problem of offensive and discriminatory language present in its database. Our museum staff are continually updating these records, adding to and improving content. We welcome your feedback and any questions or concerns you may want to share. Please email us with your comments.