Koteka

ex Jolika Collection, Rye, NY

This  fine old Koteka (phallocrypt or gourd penis sheath) could be celebrated for answering an age old question.   

Indeed, with example always seen with just a single ring of cane around the waist, the object could never truly be anchored.

Obviously, therefore,  with it's delicately placed holding straps still extant this rare example is both engaging and informative.  In case you were curious..

As with every aspect of New Guinea material culture, the Koteka had much more meaning,  and represented much more for the owner than objects we possess today.   

Kotekas identified one's people.  More intimately, it could describe one's mood.  In another interesting aspect, like modern day shoes, men had different kotekas for different uses, or expression.

Ca. 20th Cent

6"

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