Staff Finial
Not on view
The finely polished and rounded finial of this staff from the Massim region of New Guinea tapers to a carved feature depicting a male and a female figure back-to-back. The figures are seated with the legs drawn in toward the body and the legs of both figures join at the center to share a single set of buttocks. The tops of the heads of both figures are flat and the facial features are indicated with incised lines, portions of which bear traces of white lime infill. The eyes are circular and the faces are decorated with incised curvilinear motifs. The upper portion of the staff which extends beneath the figures is adorned with a broad band consisting of interlocking scroll motifs, below which is a short length of unadorned shaft.
