Elema spirit boards are some of the most rare from the Papuan Gulf. As this was the area that was contacted very early by Christian missionaries their traditional culture was put under immediate pressure. The present board, locally called “Hohao”, is a classic 19th century example with a clear graphic design featuring a spirit face with a toothy grin and a prominent raised and, importantly, pierced nose. The board is 49 3/8” (125.4 cm) in height. SOLD