standing figure with panpipes encircled by serpents and birds; wood with opercula inserts and pigments; carved for Malanggan rites

Malagan Figure, c. 1890

expand_more

This large figure holds an instrument called katoviso, which comprises a group of bamboo pipes that are played by blowing across the top. The piper's rain hat, made of a pandan leaf, is typical for women. The stylized snake carvings that compose the skirt represent the woman's connection to the spiritual world. Serpents appear frequently in the art of New Ireland because of their supernatural powers. This figure likely portrays a clan ancestor for whom a malagan ceremony was held.

Explore

Audio

Standing Figure w/Pan Pipes (#101)
Details
Title
Malagan Figure
Role
Artist
Accession Number
85.93
Curator Approved

This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

Does something look wrong with this image? Let us know

Zoom in on the left to the detail you'd like to save. Click 'Save detail' and wait until the image updates. Right click the image to 'save image as' or copy link, or click the image to open in a new tab.

standing figure with panpipes encircled by serpents and birds; wood with opercula inserts and pigments; carved for Malanggan rites