A Fine Old Gogodala Ikewa plaque, Gogodala people, Balimo Lagoon, Western Province, Papua New Guinea. Made of very light wood and richly painted with bold designs representing clan motifs. Original cane binding to the perimeter.These plaques date from the Gogodala revival period, in the 1970’s, when the Gogodala were encouraged to carve and recreate their traditional art as it was in danger of completely disappearing. Ikewa plaques were worn during ceremonies and showed clan affiliation with totemic animals, plants, insects or mythical heroes. These would have been fastened to a headdress and surrounded by feathers and worn at the level of the forehead. Acquired by Marc Seidler in 1982 from Ken Brown. The wooden panel measures 24.25 x 12 inches.

Good, weathered and stained