Early Massim Staff with Eight Opposing figures

Early Massim Staff with Eight Opposing figures

Stunning early black ebony staff with stylised human figures squatting back to back. Collected pre 1930's. Note the faces have pierced septums, a trait of the very early works from the Massim region.

In Harry Beran's book "Massim Tribal Art; Papua New Guinea" Beran makes reference to Rev Ralph Lawton who claimed very high ranking chiefs use them in an action which amounts to prohibition of a fight; they drive the staff into the ground when uttering the prohibition. The Methodist Mission on Kiriwina was saved in this way from looting during World War 2 by a chief who was under an obligation to the Mission.

Object Size 104cm
Includes Custom made metal stand

Price $3,600 AUD