Description:

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, East Sepik, Abelam, early to mid 20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden ancestral figure with cowrie shells inlaid as eyes and painted features. The figure stands on an integral pedestal with arms clasped in front. The large egg-shaped head is painted with red and white pigments. This figure would have stood inside a house and was venerated as an ancestral guardian that watched over the family. Carved figures like this example were considered a dwelling place or house for the spirit of the deceased and were treated with respect and honor. Size: 2.75" W x 11" H (7 cm x 27.9 cm)

Provenance: ex-Saint Petersburg, Florida, USA 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.

#161059

  • Condition: Stable fissure down frontside of body, on head, and on base. Nicks, chips, and scratches to surfaces and fading of pigment commensurate with age. Wood has developed a nice patina as well.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

January 7, 2021 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 24.5% 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