
F20 Two Large Balsa Spirit Figures
Wosera, Southern Abelam
These two figures were undoubtedly carved by the same artist and used together. Their main function is inside the Haus Tambaran ( Spirit House), for male initiation. They are called “Nngwalndu” in the Abelam language. The larger figure is male, the slimmer one, female; both are very finely painted but in unusual subtle black, white and blue ( Reckitt’s blue) – not the usual vibrant yellow and red colors typical of the Abelam.
Size: Size: 147cm, 148cm