Oceania, Indonesia, west New Guinea, Huon Gulf / Geelvinck Bay (Cenderawasih Bay), Poon village, ca. early 20th century CE. An attractive ancestor figure known as a korwar carved from a single piece of wood and adorned with shell-inlay eyes, two avian bones as a moustache, and a coiffure of twisted human hair caked in iron rich pigment. Sitting upon an integral plinth, the fascinating figure holds two openwork, phytomorphic objects displaying spiraling branches between his hands, as his head rests above, exhibiting brown-painted, cowrie shell eyes, a straight nose with sizable nostrils, a lengthy moustache formed from two bird bones, and wide mouth with barred teeth. Korwar figures often exemplify the distinctive approach to depicting the human form of the people of New Guinea. This figure would have been kept by the family and consulted during crises. If its advice was good, the figure would be venerated - but if was wrong, the figure could be harmed. Size: 4.25" W x 8" H (10.8 cm x 20.3 cm)
This piece has been searched against the Art Loss Register database and has been cleared. The Art Loss Register maintains the world’s largest database of stolen art, collectibles, and antiques.
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-Dr. Gallagher (1960 to 2000) collection, Sydney, Australia, acquired in 1980
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#162980
Condition
Base/bottom area repaired from three pieces with break lines visible. Fissure on left side and a few other stable fissures throughout. Expected nicks/chips and abrasions to areas. Otherwise, very nice with lovely patina.