Ceremonial dish. Wosera, Prince Alexander Mountains, Papua New Guinea, 19th century.

Ceremonial dish. Wosera, Prince Alexander Mountains, Papua New Guinea, 19th century.
Wood and fibers
Provenance: Ulrich Kortmann, Dortmund, Germany.
Measurements: 31 x 33,5 cm.

A Wosera ceremonial dish from the Prince Alexander Mountains in Papua New Guinea is an example of the rich cultural and artistic tradition of the people of this region. The Wosera are an ethnic group inhabiting the highlands of the Prince Alexander Mountains region of northern Papua New Guinea. Wosera ceremonial dishes are usually made of carved wood. They feature geometric designs and stylized figures that reflect spiritual beliefs and a link to the natural world. These designs are not only ornamental, but also have symbolic meaning related to the Wosera worldview, which is strongly influenced by spirituality, ancestral spirits and nature. Wosera ceremonial dishes are used in a variety of important rituals and ceremonies. These may include initiation rituals, weddings, and spirit worship ceremonies, among others.