Unlike the older forms of carving they are only decorative and have no special religious significance. The example on the right depicts the aftermath of a headhunting raid. The indigenous flora and fauna are sources of both inspiration and materials for the diverse art forms of New Guinea. Most carvings are created from the orange wood of the Artocarpus tree. Cassowary feathers, grass twine and sea shells obtained through trade with coastal peoples are then used for decoration.
Cowry shells are highly valued and are used to represent eyes.
The use of color is an important aspect of Middle and Upper Sepik art. It is believed that coloring a carving will increase the power associated with it and carvings are often redecorated before important ceremonies. Pigments are derived from plants, charcoal, burnt shells and minerals, then mixed with tree sap, water and clay and applied with feathers or frayed plant stems. T he artistic history of Papua New Guinea is a mystery that remains far from solved. It is hoped that the collection and preservation of artifacts produced by these unique cultures will encourage an interest and appreciation of these peoples by the outside world, as well as encouraging the indigenous people of the Sepik Basin to maintain this ancient and wonderful part of their culture.