Orator's Stool (Teket)
ClassificationsSculpture
Culture
Iatmul
Dateearly 20th Century
Made AtEast Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea
Collection SiteEast Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea
MediumWood, ochre, shell, hair and plant fiber
Dimensions34 in. (86.4 cm)
Credit LineGift of Harry and Ruth Franklin
Object number81.100.4
DescriptionThis Orator's Stool, the vernacular name for which is teket, comes from the Iatmul people residing in the Middle Sepik River region of Papua New Guinea. It was collected in 1955. Ceremonial chairs such as this one are a common fixture of an Iatmul Men's House. Despite its name, it is not meant to be sat upon, but it is used to facilitate discussion during village meetings and debates.During a discussion, the speaker stands next to the orator’s stool and hits the top of the stool with a cluster of leaves, sticks, and grass to emphasize important points in his argument. He also places leaves on the stool to confirm his statements. When the first speaker is finished and all the leaves lay on the stool, the next speaker can begin his address. After all of the speakers have stated their arguments, the village chief hits the stool a few more times and states a decision for all to follow.
On View
Not on view
late 19th Century
mid 20th Century
20th Century
