Honestly described · Free 30-day returns · Free US shipping · Secure checkout
Overview
A vintage carved wood suspension hook from the Sepik River region of Papua New Guinea. A standing female figure rises from a crescent-shaped hook, and one arm of the hook is carved as a crocodile head with a serrated ridge along its back. The figure has a cream-painted face with red and white spirals, slit eyes, a pointed nose and a wide, toothy grin. Her body is decorated with red, white and yellow dots, red V-shaped lines across the chest and yellow and red bands on the legs. A fiber cord loop passes through a hole at the top of the head for hanging. The painted surface has a dry, matte, aged look. At 26 inches tall, it makes a strong piece for a wall, a narrow space beside a doorway or a bookshelf.
Background
Carved suspension hooks were used in Sepik River homes and meeting houses to hang net bags of food and belongings from the rafters, out of reach of animals and away from the damp floor. Crocodiles and human figures are among the most common subjects in Sepik carving. This piece is unsigned. It is hand-carved wood with painted decoration and weighs 2 lb 15 oz.
Condition
Good vintage condition. There are old cracks on the crocodile arm and near the base of the hook that have been repaired and are very stable. The paint shows flaking, rubbing and loss consistent with age and handling, and there are natural drying lines in the wood. Please see all photos.
Dimensions & Weight
It is 26 x 8.5 x 3 inches (H x W x D) and weighs 2 lb 15 oz.
Shipping
Free standard shipping within the US, packed securely.
