Gope Board - Used by the Papuan Gulf people of Kikori, Baimaru, Uruma, Hohao, and Orokolo.
These boards represent the spirits of ancestral heroes that can protect clans from evil spirits
and death. Usually made by the uncle of a young man and given to him on his initiation into
manhood. Others are made from canoe boards of vanquished enemies. Gope Boards are
often carried into battle with other clans or on headhunting raids.

PREVIOUS       NEXT        HOME