Papua New Guinea, Middle Sepik River region, ca. early to mid 20th century CE. An exemplary carved-wood figural "food hook" with an expressive face featured as a top finial. The lovely implement is intricately painted in vibrant hues of creamy white and salmon pink in elaborate abstract designs on a dark brown base. Capped with a hemispherical, double-tiered headdress, the expressive visage displays white shell-inlay eyes under a straight brow, a pointed nose with a raised nasal bridge, and thick lips, all flanked by a pair of elongated ears. This two-pronged hook with an eye-like design in the center calls to mind the ceremonial items of the yam festivals for which this area is known. Elaborate hooks like this one were used to preserve food, both by hanging them and by calling upon the spirit they believe is within them to slow spoilage. Size: 4.5" W x 31.75" H (11.4 cm x 80.6 cm)
Provenance: ex-Mac Laren Markowitz Gallery, Boulder, Colorado, USA
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.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance),
we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.
Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#157771
Condition
Missing one eye. Two metal screws with metal wire on back for suspension. Expected nicks/chips and surface fissures commensurate with age and use. Otherwise, excellent with nice patina and impressive remaining pigments.