According to Asmat tradition, Fumeripits was the first being who existed on earth and created the first ceremonial house. He grew tired of being alone, so he carved human figures from trees and placed them in the ceremonial house. However, the figures did not come to life. Fumeripits then created a drum from a hollowed tree and stretched lizard skin over it. When he played the drum, the carved figures came to life and were the first Asmat people.