Abelam Karaut

An exceptional and large Kara-ut set on a woven neckband . This traditional anthropomorphic figure was worn hanging down the back of the man during times of imitation into manhood warrior status.

It is made from platted bush twine which has been painted in red, local clay and decorated with many cut corrie shells rather than the usual nassa shells that are commonly found on Kara-uts. Two sliced cone shells fixed in the centre of each with small nassa shells are used for the eyes. Three split wild boars tusks are integrally woven into the main body to form the abdomen while two smaller pigs’ tusks protrude from the nostrils.

This kara-ut has three legs, each of which are woven into tassels at the ends. The elongated ears also are ending in tassels and set onto the old, worn headband which is slightly damaged in parts due to age.

Length from the “feet” to the top of ears; 40cm / 16ins.