Expressive Yina Figure from Kwoma People, Upper Sepik

A Yina figure, Kwoma people, Waskuk area, upper Sepik, this very expressive Yina has all the attributes of good Kwoma sculpture, looking at the side view the nose is suspended from the forehead, much of the original ochre painted designs intact. Yina is one of three distinct ceremonies held annually in the villages of the kwoma, Nukuma and Mayo speakers of the upper Sepik River, these ceremonies are associated with the harvesting of yams. Yina is the first of the yam harvest ceremonies. The basic iconographic feature is a highly stylized representation of the human head. The head is greatly enlarged with a prominent nose, disembodied and with a long pointed shaft. The most striking feature of the face is the nose, a common Sepik symbol of the phallus. Though strong symbols of maleness permeate the sculptural form, the Yina can be designated either male or female. Yina represent spirits known as sikilawos, which have great power and are responsible for the continuing fertility of the yam gardens. Older Yina's are hidden in garden huts, away from the village. They have acquired power over time and through use. New carvings are required from time to time; power is not inherent, but develops in the process of carving and painting. 101 cm