Marupai are found among the Namau and Elema people of the Papuan Gulf. They are made from dwarf coconuts and delicate incised designs are carved into the surface and filled with lime. The overall shape and design create the impression of the head of an animal; some would say pig-like. with two eyes generally central on the head. They were sometimes kept in small woven bags, that could be used to wear around the neck.

These marupai are personal property, and used by certain adult men. They fulfill a variety of magical functions; in the past they were much feared as a sorcerer could use the power of his marupai to harm or even kill his victim. The positive power of the marupai helped in fishing and hunting, protection against illness and also in warfare to protect against the enemy.