This carved wood fish comes from the Papuan Gulf area of New Guinea. I cannot say exactly how this was used but I do know that were ritual dances in the Papuan Gulf were carved animal figures were held in procession. And the strip of yellow paint is also a mystery. Either way the fish has a great presence, shows significant age and finely carved face and mouth. The piece is 41 1/8" in length, probably dates to the 1940s and sells for $2800. Questions?