Suspension hooks are used for ceremonial and utilitarian purposes in the Sepik River area. Human figures or animal forms are often part of the design. In former times, spirits were called upon through offerings and ritual to empower their owners before raids. Hooks also function to keep food away from hungry rodents. (Schmid in Greub 1985: 191-192, no.84)

Provenance:
Lewis/Wara Gallery, Seattle
Alex Philips, Melbourne
John Ioannou, Queensland