Asmat Papuan woodcarvers making an ancestor pole

Asmat-Papuans carving a 'bisj-pole' from a tree-trunk with primitive stone axes. The bisj-pole, which symbolizes fertility, is placed in the village.

The pole is cleared from spirits by men with bows and arrows. After that the pole is thrown in the sagoswamp to fertilize the swamp.

During the period of carving, the pole is kept in the men's house and covered with leaves and branches in order to prevent women from seeing it unfinished.

9 x 12cm (3 9/16 x 4 3/4in.)

Source: collectie.tropenmuseum.nl