Papuan Gulf Kakame Figure-New Guinea Art-Oceanic Tribal Art
Imunu is the quality and characteristic in Papuan Gulf thought that makes unique or unusual things special. Imunu, or as they are sometimes referred to "kakame," figures are often carved from odd pieces of wood and routinely take on the twisted or peculiar shape of the branch or root used. This example was probably carved to be used as a neckrest but still has that engaging and surreal composition. Notice the deeply pierced nose and ears. The figure was collected in the 1960s but dates to the 1930s era, stands 35 3/8” (89.8 cm) in height as mounted.