Collection Online

Boulder dwelling of Butakom, a forest spirit
1988

Medium
earth and natural pigments on sago palm petiole
Measurements
124.0 × 63.4 cm
Place/s of Execution
Bangwis village, Washkuk Hills, East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea
Accession Number
2001.406
Department
Pacific Art
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased through the NGV Foundation with the assistance of The Thomas William Lasham Fund, Founder Benefactor, 2001
Gallery location
Not on display
Physical description
The three large black roundels arranged in a column at the centre of the painting depict different representations of a gigantic bolder located on the artist’s land. Boulders are believed to be the dwelling place of a powerful spirit, in this case – one named Butakom.