Gope Ancestor Spirit Board from Papua New Guinea (PNG)/Oceania - 34" H X 7.25" W

Ancestral spirit board collected from the Gulf Province in the 1960s. Boards vary in size, but most have a consistent oblong elliptical shape with low relief carvings of symbolic geometric and figural images representing an ancestral hero. These images of ancestral heroes represent spirits who protect members of the clan from bad luck, sickness, and death.  This wooden piece was hand carved and painted with lime (white), red ochre and other native paints.

A genuine ritual object from Papua New Guinea that would make for an impactful wall hanging or a stunning addition to any public or private Tribal Art Collection from Oceania. The muted earth tone colors would also complement a wide range of interiors from Mid-Century, California Casual, Organic Inspired, Tropical/Oceanic or Coastal Modern Design.

Build a collection! Explore our other Wooden Carvings and Masks from our Papua New Guinea (PNG)/Oceania Collection.  

Place of Origin: Papua New Guinea (PNG)

Date of Manufacture: early/mid-20th Century 

Condition: Excellent

Wear: Consistent with age and use. Please refer to pictures.

Dimensions: 34 in. H X 7.25 in. W X 1 D

Reference:

Spurlock Museum of World Cultures at the University of Illinois

Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth

Brooklyn Museum