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Ancestor Poles
The ancestor poles are the most well-known Asmat works of art, formed by three or more tiers of human figures, often characterized by a conspicuous phallic projection (cemen).
The poles are used during ceremonies and may be placed in front of the longhouse as a protection.
They were usually carved in softwood, such as mangrove wood. The tree is turned upside down, stripped of its leaves and the trunk is carved into an intricate series of figures (human images of the deceased) placed one on top of the other, like a banner. The ancestor pole had the function to appease the spirits before a headhunting raid.
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In the past the poles, as well as the sculptures and shields, were roughly outlined using stone tools, while the details were carved with casuarius bone or shell instruments. Only after the 16th century the coastal tribes started using tools made from nails and metal scraps found in whipwrecks, hence using also ironwood for their carving.
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