Papua New Guinea, Sepik, Spear thrower
60 cm
The element on the spear thrower added weight and balance to the spear thrower. This element could represent a crocodile or a hornbill bird. The spear thrower was held at shoulder height parallel to the ground, with the shaft of the spear fitting into the groove of the bamboo and the butt resting on the ornament. The spearman could then put all the force of his back and shoulder muscles behind the spear, instead of using only the arm muscles.
Bought at Galerie Lemaire Prinsengracht (1960 – 1978)