Gope Ancestor Spirit Board from Papua New Guinea (PNG)- 52" H X 11" W

Known as a “Kwoi” to the natives, Gope boards protect the islanders from both evil spirits and death. They 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 represent spirits who protect members of the clan from bad luck, sickness, and death. 

This piece was collected in the 1960's and has a large face in the upper portion with open, round eyes, a flared nose, and a wide mouth showing teeth. Complex relief carved abstract designs cover the entire surface and there is an orange ochre colored background with natural white pigments and black painted accents. It is very expressive and deeply carved with two raffia grass tassels attached to sides. Surface shows good aging with varying coloration and some wear around edges. 

Very well carved authentic piece and a fine example of Oceanic Art from Papua New Guinea. It 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 and California Coastal... Organic-Inspired or Coastal Modern design.

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Place of Origin: Era River Region, Papua New Guinea

Date of Manufacture: 1925-1940 

Condition: Excellent

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

Dimensions: 52 in. H X 11 in. W X 1 in. D

Reference: 

Spurlock Museum of World Cultures at the University of Illinois

Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth

Brooklyn Museum

Carnegie Museum of Natural History

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