Description:

Oceania, Marquesas Islands (French Polynesia), ca. 1940s CE. A massive, beautiful wooden drum with a skin drum head secured by several bands of thick woven fiber. The four legs are decorated with relief carvings of tiki-style motifs commonly found on Marquesan artwork, as is the large body. Tiki figures originated in the Marquesas, and spread throughout most of Polynesia, often with local twists (for example, the moai of Easter Island are believed to be a form of tiki). They represent the ancestor Ti'i who is half human, half god and represents the first man. He is often shown with his hands on his stomach and his legs crouched, as here. His head is large to emphasize his power; his large eyes represent his great knowledge. Size: 22.2" W x 50" H (56.4 cm x 127 cm)

Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection

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#144678

  • Condition: One side has been repaired in three places along the length of the body/leg. Repair is well done and the piece stands very sturdily, even when being played. Light surface wear commensurate with age. Some discoloration to the skin drum head from use.

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March 21, 2019 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
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