On New Ireland, elaborate memorial ceremonies called malagans mark the death of important members of society. Performances of music and dance, the exchange of gifts and the display of specially commissioned sculptures honor the deceased and enhance the prestige of surviving relatives. Sculptors produce numerous objects that are hidden behind a screen of palm leaves until the climax of the ceremony, when they are revealed to the guests. The sculpted images usually incorporate animals that are the clan symbols of the deceased person. The female figure on this pole stands on a pig's head, which links her to the groups who live in the interior regions of the island. The circular design in the center, known as a mataling, or eye of fire, refers to the sun, and is flanked by two frigate birds, important totemic animals in New Ireland culture.