Marupai Charm Elema Culture, Papuan Golf, Papua New Guinea Early 20th Century

MARUPAI CHARM 
Elema culture, Golf Papou, Papua New Guinea 
Early 20th century 
Coconut, pigments
L.: 10cm 

Ovoid in shape, tapering lengthwise, the charm is made from a coconut with a glossy patina. 
The end is carved to represent a zoomorphic head with eyes incised in two concentric circles, a half-open mouth and a long snout ending in two small nostrils. 
A visible section of the body shows incisions that have been complemented by the addition of white pigments. In fact, organized along an axial symmetry formed by the nasal bridge, a pattern of oblique, saw-toothed lines extends all the way to the animal's lower mandible. 

These charms were reserved for male initiates. They are individual and carry a particular spiritual charge. 
Both protectors and purveyors of abundance, they are also said to have the ability to influence the weather. 

Ref. : 4633

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON