Lot No. 49

An Aboriginal Painted & Carved Pukamani Pole The final Pukamani is the climax of a series of ceremonies that traditionally continued for many months after the burial of the dead. There is usually one iliana (minor ceremony) at the time of death and then many months later the final Pukamani. The ceremony culminates in the erection of carved and decorated Pukamani poles which take many months to prepare. Participants in the ceremony are painted with natural ochres in different designs, transforming the dancers and providing protection against recognition by the spirit of the deceased. Fitted stand. circa 1970s H 190cm