The Asmat

This ethnic group, which numbers about 65 000, was virtually unknown before WWII. These Papuans, who live in the Indonesian part of New Guinea, have had to survive in swampy tidal river terrain, where there is no metal or stone. Shunned for a long time, because of their reputation as cannibals, the Asmat have now converted to Christianity and their distinctive art is much sought after by collectors.