Sculpture «iniet»
Gazelle-Halbinsel, Neu-Britannien, Papua-Neuguinea
natural white chalk, in the shape of a standing male figure with a simplified and massive body, contrasting with the proportionally short and thin arms flanking the trunk, crowned by a neckless head with a flattened facial plane and schematized facial features, slightly dam., missing part (left foot tip) and place of repair (left leg), abrasion;
the «iniet» society was a «club» of initiated men. It comprised several different grade levels, and members endeavored to rise to the highest ranks, which ensured prestige and social status. Entrance to the «iniet» was through initiation, and involved acquiring knowledge and understanding of the spirit world. These figures are called «iniet» as well, and it is thought that each one belonged to a specific member of the society. Members are said to have congregated at sacred places called «maravot», where they would perform large ceremonies reportedly involving sodomy. The German colonial administration thought the «iniet» was an anti-colonial movement and tried to repress it. It was joined in its efforts by the catholic missions, who wanted to stamp out pagan «iniet» practices. For this reason little is known today of the true function of the «iniet».
H: 39 cm, coll. 1957 (4735/004)

Lit.: Meyer, Anthony J.P., Ozeanische Kunst, Vol. II, Köln 1995, p. 364 f.
Koch, Gerd, INIET - Geister in Stein, Die Berliner Iniet-Figuren-Sammlung, Museum für Völkerkunde Berlin 1982, p. 18 f.