Ngaju Soul Ship

San Francisco Tribal

A lively soul ship that was carved in memoriam for a deceased ancestor. This was done not only to honor someone, but to create a spirit residence for them until all necessary rituals were completed and their spirit had successfully reached "the land of departed souls." Here, the boat echoes a teeming village filled with warmth and life. It’s shape further represents the female power of the lower world while the mast which is topped by a bird symbolizes the upper world, masculinity, and a regenerating tree of life.
Early to mid-20th century, wood, cotton cord

Vicki Shiba

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