ANCESTRAL STATUE

Ancestral statues play an important part in the lives of the Asmat tribe. The Asmat worship such statues, and believe that, through them, they are able to summon the presence of Masren Nanggi, the God of Creation. This is why a number of ancestral statues are being depicted, as if in prayer, with open palms, invocating the presence of Masren Nanggi. Ancestral statues are usually displayed in the house or at family cemeteries.