Lot 158C
Southeast Asia, Indonesia, western Irian Jaya, Asmat people, ca. mid-20th century CE. A large ceremonial shield, hand-carved from a single piece of wood taken from the strong buttress roots of a mangrove tree, bearing the bold visual language of the Asmat people. Its design conveys aggression and spiritual power, with abstracted motifs symbolizing animals and elemental forces. The obverse is adorned with raised curvilinear patterns and surmounted by a teardrop-shaped finial, resembling a feather or leaf. On the reverse, a central ridge incised with geometric designs runs the length of the shield, culminating in an abstract hornbill in profile at the top; at the midpoint, an arched grip is carved directly into the wood for handling. The edges are pierced and fringed with braided palm-fiber tassels, while both front and back are painted in white and ochre-orange pigments that highlight the carved forms. These shields were intentionally bold, serving as proclamations of impending warfare or headhunting raids, with the red-ochre accents evoking the blood soon to be shed. Size: 58.3" L x 17" W (148.1 cm x 43.2 cm)
Symbolic creatures - most notably the hornbill - are integrated into the design to amplify the shield's potency. The creation of such shields was marked by a ceremonial feast, during which they were displayed to inspire warriors and demonstrate collective strength before a raid. Within Asmat belief, warfare was a sacred duty laid down by an ancestral hero, with each death requiring vengeance to allow the departed's spirit to enter the community of honored ancestors. Each shield was named for a revered ancestor, carrying their protection and bravery into battle, and preserving both the lineage and legacy of the one whose name it bore.
Provenance: private Denver, Colorado, USA collection, acquired in the 1960's
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#195796
- Condition: Discoloration and stains. Some chips and abrasions. Losses to palm tassels. Overall good condition.
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