Stone spear thrower, Marind-Anim, West Papua, Papua New Guinea Height: 12.7 cm Stone. Carved from a hard, carefully polished stone, this spear thrower attests to the remarkable technical mastery of the Marind-Anim artisans. Both a utilitarian and prestigious object, it illustrates the importance attached to hunting weapons in the societies of southern New Guinea, where the quality of the materials and craftsmanship played a significant role in the status of their owners. Provenance: Australian Gallery.