Middle Sepik Flute

A bamboo ceremonial flute from the Middle Sepik region. Intricately carved flute with finely detailed and decorated ancestral figure flute head. The base of the flute is bamboo carved in low relief with traditional Middle Sepik markings.

On the top of the flute is a beautifully decorated mythical ancestral figure that is central to the villagers ancient beliefs and legends of this particular area - The half bird and half crocodile creation is the central part of Middle Sepik traditional culture and legends.

The figure, carved from wood, is painted in local river clays and has two birds on top of the head. Birds are understood as good omens along the river. Completed with twine, shell and snake vertebrae ear decorations results in a very attractive piece.

Length; 92cm / 36ins. Palembei, Middle Sepik.