Massim Munkuris Wave Splitter Finial-New Guinea Oceanic Art
Here is a large Munkuris wave splitter final from a Massim kula trading canoe. The two birds at the top have totemic value and the piece itself is said to have “magical efficacy and protect the canoe from difficulties during its voyage” (Beran, 1980, p. 11). This example has been in storage in Phoenix Arizona is the first time on the market in nearly 50 years. It dates to the early/mid 20th century, is 32” (81.3 cm) in height.