The Asmat : cannibal craftsman of New Guinea

Duration: 0:52:00

Year Published: 1978

Creator: Films

Format: 16mm

Color: Color

Sound: sound

Description: The impact of change on rituals of a formerly cannibalistic society are evidenced in this documentary. Trees chosen and marked months before are cut and prepared through ritual for carving. The nature of the art work and its function in other rituals are examined. Comments are made regarding cannibalistic practices in the 1930's when David Rockefeller disappeared in this area. Observes the Asmat tribe of New Guinea, including a ceremonial burial ritual and the sculpture by village woodcarvers of intricate and decorative ancestor poles. The nature of the art work and its function in other rituals are examined, as are the reasons why headhunting and cannibalism became part of the Asmat culture.

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