Shaman's staff - Melanesia or Indonesia ?
 

Hi

I got this long carved stick a little while ago....not a weapon as such, but maybe could be used for defence in case of necessity. I think its probably a shaman or diviner's staff but not sure whether Admiralty Islands, Timor or Dayak origin ?

Has anyone seen anything similar - perhaps one of our South East Asian specialists can help out ? The staff has been varnished at some time in the past, unfortunately.

Thanks in advance.

I've seen something similar that was supposedly from Timor, so you might be right on with that guess. :shrug:

Staff are derived from weapons. I think they are often of more importance. For obvious reasopns like the carrier tells othesr where to go and fight. I think you are spot on about Admiralty Islands and western Islands. Great find!!! I will try and find the time to upload some pictures of similar repesentations of the human form from the area.

Thanks to David and Tim for their input on this piece. Tim - I look forward to any pictures and references you can find, much appreciated.

Despite its relatively small size, the carved figure has a powerful and commanding presence, which suits the staff's purpose I suppose. Also like the way the ears are represented by incised triangles which are mirrored in the carved areas on the shaft.

Regards.