Description:

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, ca. 20th century CE. A fascinating wood figure - perhaps representing an ancestor - presenting stylized facial features crowned by tufts of human hair applied via clay or dissipated earth. Comprised only of the upper body, the slender figure bends both arms at the elbows, placing each hand beneath the chest, holding a triangular object, possibly a tool or weapon. The huge head displays traditional Papua New Guinea characteristics with ovoid eyes, a straight nose with flared nostrils, and a thin smile, all flanked by a pair of petite, high-set ears. The verso features prominent shoulder blades and a raised crest at the bottom of the head, perhaps intended as a neck. A twisted rope of vegetal fiber is looped through one arm, suggesting he may have been suspended for display or worn as an adornment. Size: 1.9" W x 9.4" H (4.8 cm x 23.9 cm); 10" H (25.4 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Newport Beach, California Collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#141742

  • Condition: Missing inlaid eyes. Nicks and abrasions to surface, and rich patina throughout. Liberal remaining hair.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

April 20, 2023 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 26.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000