Hooks Two types of hooks can be found in Papua New Guinea. Though they might serve a utilitarian purpose, they also serve important symbolic and ceremonial functions directed toward the welfare of the entire village. Basket Hooks: In the rainy season, baskets hooks are used to suspend bags of food and valuables away from rats and insects. Skull Hooks: Skulls of enemies were displayed on these sacred hooks. These hooks were only hung in the men’s houses.

Fig. 23: Basket Hook, Middle Sepik, Wood, clay, shells & human hair, 30”

Fig. 24: Skull Hook, Makanjambit Village, Middle Sepik, Wood, shells, clay, cane & human hair, 29”

Fig. 25: Basket Hook, Chambri Lakes Wood, 27”

Fig. 26: Basket Hook, Middle Sepik, Wood, shells, tortoise shell, cane, grasses & clay, 43”

Photography: Marc Assayag
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