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The Duk Duk society, Bismarck Archipelago, Papua New Guinea, 1920
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The Duk Duk society, Bismarck Archipelago, Papua New Guinea, 1920
The Duk Duk society, Bismarck Archipelago, Papua New Guinea, 1920. Young men being initiated before they can marry. The Duk Duk is a secret society of the Tolai people of the Rabaul area of New Britain, the largest island of the Bismarck archipelago. The society has religious, political and social objectives and traditionally enforced law and order among the Tolai. Its members wear short bushy capes made from leaves and cone-shaped masks. A print from Customs of the World, Hutchinson and Company, 1920
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Media ID 14925809
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Custom Ethnography Initiation Mask Melanesia Melanesian Pacific Islands Papua New Guinea Print Collector12 Rite Ritual Secret Society Tradition Bismarck Archipelago Headgear New Britain
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print from 1920 showcases the intriguing world of The Duk Duk society in the Bismarck Archipelago of Papua New Guinea. In this image, young men are undergoing initiation rites before they can enter into marriage. The Duk Duk society, a secret organization belonging to the Tolai people of Rabaul, holds significant religious, political, and social importance within their community. The members of this clandestine group don distinctive attire consisting of short bushy capes made from leaves and cone-shaped masks. These unique costumes not only serve as a symbol of membership but also represent the traditional enforcement of law and order among the Tolai people. Set against a backdrop rich with nature's beauty - towering trees and lush greenery - these men engage in age-old rituals that have been passed down through generations. Their striking headdresses add an air of mystery to their presence as they partake in sacred ceremonies. This photograph is not just a glimpse into Melanesian culture; it is a testament to human history and tradition. It offers us insight into customs that have shaped societies for centuries. As we study this image, we are reminded that there is so much more to discover about our diverse world and its fascinating inhabitants.
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