FLUTE RESONATOR, Abelam, PNG

Chris Boylan Oceanic Art

1.      FLUTE RESONATOR, urungwall, Abelam people, Prince Alexander Ranges, PNG 

These hollow wooden cylindrical forms, called urungwall in the Abelam language, are rare. They are used only during important ceremonial festivals, especially during initiation ceremony when men play the sacred flutes.  A flute is played into the hollow of the cavity resonator which greatly enhances the intensity of the music. The urungwall is used mainly inside the Haus Tambaran (Spirit House).  On occasions, when the women and children are chased away, it was sometimes carried in procession through the village by 3 or 4 men with the flute player following behind. The resonator was rubbed with salat leaves and magic stones to “awaken” it.

The remarkable aspect of this urungwallis the full length, 3-dimensional figure carved on its front, depicting an important ancestor generally referred to as nngwalndu.. The figure has traces of paint remaining. Its sinuous form, with curvilinear legs and arms, a strong semi-spherical face and detailed motifs, is truly a masterpiece. Wear and tear from long use is evidenced at the top and bottom and also on the back, where it has most probably lain on the earthen floor inside the Haus Tambaran for many years.

$4,500.00

Artwork details