Powerful ancestor carvings from the swamp forests of southern Papua.
The Asmat live in the tidal swamp forests of southern Papua. Their wood carvings — tall bis ancestor poles, shields, canoes and drums — are considered among the most striking in Oceania.
Carving connects the living with ancestors. Each year the Asmat Cultural Festival in Agats showcases carvers from villages across the region.
Good to know
- Bis ancestor poles
- Asmat Cultural Festival in Agats
- Carving honours ancestors
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