Iatmul Wood Canoe Prow

A small bird perches on top, carved in relief with a spotted breast, as if hitching a ride.

This canoe prow is Iatmul, from the Middle Sepik River, Papua New Guinea, and dates to the 20th century, in wood. Along the Sepik, canoe bows are often carved with crocodiles, birds and ancestral figures, which are generally understood to protect and guide the vessel. The surface is deeply weathered to a soft grey. On top, a bird with a hooked beak and a spotted body is carved in relief. Lozenges and swirls run along the side. It is mounted on a stand and is 17 inches wide, 8 deep and 7.75 high.

The river took its time with this one, and the carving held on.