Papuan Ritual Bowl, Tami Island

Hand-carved kwila wooden bowl ("intsia bijuga") in a nautical shape, decorated with raised and incised designs, the entire surface rubbed with black volcanic earth and plant sap. Traditionally, these oblong bowls held food during ceremonial feasts, the designs symbolizing family or ancestral affiliations. They were considered family heirlooms and used as dowries. Tami is a tiny island, and the bowls were also traded with neighboring islands for other resources. Oceania, Melanesia, Papua New Guinea, Huon Gulf region, Tami Island, late 19th century. Provenance: Claude de Marteau Estate. Sold with certificate of provenance. L 71 cm x H 11 cm x W 24 cm. See this Papuan Ritual Bowl, Tami Island, in full screen mode on Vintage Addict