Britannica Sources used in this answer

How did the Nor-Papua represent their totems in flutes and house figures?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

totem fish mask — Totemism Totem fish mask from the Orokolo Bay area of New Guinea. Painted bark cloth over rattan frame with fringe of dried grass. Height 1.63 m.

Among the Nor-Papua of New Guinea, totem animals—which are often associated with fish—are represented as spirit creatures in sacred flutes and as figures preserved within each man’s house. These objects serve as manifestations of their totems, which the group believes are the source of their origin and the entities that bring the souls of the dead to holy places.1

The use of these items is deeply connected to their religious life and initiation ceremonies, during which group members mimic the totems. While these flutes and figures function as sacred objects, it is important to note that in many traditional cultures, such instruments are often venerated and housed in special areas to reflect their association with the supernatural.12