Circa 1960; Iatmul people, Sepik River region, Papua New Guinea
The figural carved wood stool painted with natural pigments, inset shell eyes, and trimmed with cassowary bird feathers
41.25" H x 12.5" W x 8.5" D

Provenance: The Collection of Marian and John Scott

Notes: Large figures such as this are used by the men of a village council during debates, rather than for seating. They are known as "Orator's Stools" because when a member of the council wants to speak, they place a stick or leaf on the seat of the carving, which allows them to orate and also can be used to punctuate his speech. The mask-like head represents the spirit of a clan or village ancestor.

This example may or may not have been made as a decorative item for sale. In the 1960s and 1970s there was frequent trade of such pieces with tourists and it was thought that larger pieces had more value. Carvers made them for both ceremonial and trade purposes. They are painted with natural earth pigments, frequently have inset shell eyes, and are trimmed with cassowary bird feathers.

Overall good condition with oxidation, scuffs, shrinkage cracks, nicks, and rubbed wear commensurate with age. Scattered minor losses to the carving.