Figure, One of a Pair
Not on view
One of a matched pair of male and female figures from the New Guinea Highlands made from fiber and dressed in miniature versions of customary clothing. The eyes and teeth of both figures are made from nassa shells (Nassarius arcularius). The face of the male figure is painted red with nose and cheeks in yellow and a beard of human hair. He wears a double strand necklace of seeds known as Job’s tears (Coix lacryma-jobi) and a chest ornament made from sections of reed or bamboo. A netted fiber hat, bag (or bilum) and apron-like garment which hangs down over a band of shredded leaves complete his ensemble.
No image available
