Representations of spirits in human form are found on Elema boards. The figures are often shown dancing and the motion is indicated by asymetrical kneecaps. (Welsch 2006: 13)
Spirit board, hohao
TC 56
Provenance: Alex Philips, Melbourne, 2003
Dimensions: H. 129 cm
Ethnic Group: Elema
Culture: Papua New Guinea, Papuan Gulf
Publishing History: Robert Welsch, Virginia-Lee Webb, Sebastian Haraha. Coaxing the Spirits to Dance: Art and Society in the Papuan Gulf. New Hampshire, Hood Museum of Art, 2006:12 (fig.13)
Virginia-Lee Webb. Embodied Spirits. Gope Boards from the Papuan Gulf. Milan. 5 Continents Editions 2015: 80 (Plate 12).
Exhibition History: Coaxing the Spirits to Dance: Art and Society in the Papuan Gulf. Hood Museum of Art, Dartmouth College, April 1 – September 17, 2006.
