Description:

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, East Sepik Province, Washkuk Hills, Kwoma people, ca. mid 20th century CE. Hand-carved from a single piece of wood, an abstract female figure delineated in the nude with pendulous breasts and genitalia revealed, her body extensively decorated with red, cream, yellow, and brown pigments. She represents one of three principal types of carved figures traditionally displayed during Nokwi ceremonies that are performed annually in association with the harvest of the yam, a staple food of the Kwoma people. Nokwi sculptures depict powerful female spirits. Size: 50" H (127 cm)

See a similar example in the National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne (object number 2013.322).

Provenance: private Tucson, Arizona, USA collection, acquired between 1950 and 1985

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#150667

  • Condition: Normal surface wear with scuffs and abrasions to pigmentation commensurate with age. Some areas of inactive insect damage. Form is otherwise very good with vivid carved and painted details. Large nail used by previous owner for displaying.

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January 16, 2020 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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