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Naniikwi, a Nokwi yam harvest spirit

Burugay
Naniikwi, a Nokwi yam harvest spirit
 (c. 1970)

Medium
earth pigments and synthetic polymer paint on wood, sap, shell, human hair

Measurements
138.0 × 26.1 × 23.7 cm

Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Presented through the NGV Foundation by Michael J. Ball, Governor, 2001

Reproduction requests

Gallery location
Not on display

Artwork Details

Place/s of Execution
Melawei village, Washkuk Hills, East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea

Accession Number
2001.831

Department
Pacific Art

Physical description
The sculpture is one of the three types of carved figures displayed during Nokwi ceremonies, one of the types of ceremonies performed annually in association with the harvest of yam, a staple food of the Kwoma people. Nokwi sculptures depict powerful female spirits, each of which has a personal name like this one. The figure is highly stylised carved female figure with a pointed circular design on its stomach.

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