Papuan Gulf Bullroarer-Elema-Kaiavuru-New Guinea Art-Oceanic Art
It would probably be difficult to overestimate the cultural significance of bullroarers in the Papuan Gulf, especially among the Elema. Both Douglas Newton and F. E. Williams posit that it is the unique shape of the bullroarer that is the probable origin for the elliptical form of both the spirit boards and the tall “hevehe” masks. The Elema word for bullroarer is “kaiavuru,” which Williams suggests is surely a form of the Purari Delta term “kaiaimunu,” which are the large wicker-work monsters kept in the back of the ceremonial house that transform boys into men by eating and disgorging them. In the Elema area bullroarers are also referred to as “hevehe,” which again, are sea monsters depicted in the most culturally important cycle of ceremonies known by the same name. In both the “kaiaimunu” and “kevehe” rituals social order is recreated and restored. Thus the bullroarer, with its evocative sound, is considered central to the regeneration of civil life with the Papuan Gulf.
The present example is quite large, carved from a dense hardwood with a full spirit figure design and classic forked bottom. The eyes are stylized birds, the mouth is curled into a toothy grin and the feet at the end of long legs are pointed outwards. Nice remains of white and pink pigments. The piece comes from a Detroit private collection formed in the 1960s. The bullroarer dates to the late 19th/early 20th century, stands 30 7/8” (78.4 cm) in height. SOLD