Food Storage Pot, 20th Century
Abelam culture; Southern Wosera area, Prince Alexander Mountain…

Vessel

ClassificationsFurnishings-Serviceware-vessels

Culture Abelam

Date20th Century

Made AtEast Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea

MediumCeramic and pigment

Dimensions9 5/8 × 12 5/8 × 12 5/8 in. (24.4 × 32.1 × 32.1 cm)

Credit LineAnonymous Gift

Object number2003.43.49

DescriptionThis object is an intricately incised ceramic food storage vessel produced by the Abelam people residing in the Prince Alexander Mountains of Papua New Guinea's East Sepik Province. Created as a functional item, it also serves to illustrate the power of social status as well as connection to the spiritual world.

Feasts are the premiere social gatherings in New Guinea. These village-wide or multi-village events can mark the end of a battle, the passing of an elder, or the celebration of a marriage. The day of the feast the host provides as many pigs as he can afford to ensure his social status for years to come. The pigs are ritually killed and then roasted in a rock pit for hours. Eventually they are served along with other Oceanic staples like taro and sago. As the gathered crowd awaits the food, elaborate dances are performed to further demonstrate the organizer’s wealth and power.

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