Eroded Human Figure, 20th Century
Possibly Ewa culture, Karawari River area, Middle Sepik Rive…

Anthropomorphic Figure

ClassificationsSculpture

CulturePossibly Ewa

Date20th Century

Made AtEast Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea

MediumWood

Dimensions4 1/4 × 32 1/2 × 5 in. (10.8 × 82.6 × 12.7 cm)

Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Danny and Anne Shih

Object number2014.15.10

DescriptionThis figure’s carving and design are consistent with the style found in the Karawari River area. The people that inhabit this area, particularly the Ewa, are known to have created and retained a very significant number of carved wooden figures. While the best known examples are aripa, or one leg figures, there are several different forms typically produced by the Ewa. This figure seems to fall into the category of one-legged figures that are relatively flat and designed to be seen from the front. The figures of this category are said to be very clearly female. This figure does not give a clear indication of its intended gender. As such, it might fall into a category of two-legged carvings depicting human figures, despite the fact that it appears to have one central leg. Information on this category of figures is sparse and scholars recognize that it may be unreliable. However, what is known suggests that these figures were meant to be viewed from the front and likely represent females with specific and meaningful clan affiliations.

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