An ancestral spirit figure from Papua New Guinea, carved from hardwood, with opposing curved projections surrounding the face. The body has quite thin arms, resting on the hips, and the legs are apart. The surface is blackened.

Ancestor figures are very common in the tribal world where departed ancestors are thought to be very much alive in another reality. As a rule, the ancestors can influence current events, for better or for worse. They are happy to receive gestures of love or at least respect. Some ancestors are loved; some are feared. In either case, offerings are made. (FLG)