Oceania, French Polynesia, Tahiti, ca. 1930s CE. A hand-carved wood sculpture of five nude figures tangled in one another as they engage in a sensual activity. Boasting a lovely natural woodgrain surface in hues of chocolate brown and caramel, each of the stylized figures features a bulbous head with heavy-lidded, almond-shaped eyes, a broad nose, full lips, and ovoid ears. One figure appears to be sitting upon two others as he kisses a female character and places his hand on the torso of a second woman. All carved upon a single, integral base, their gestures seem unmistakably tender and their proximity sexual. Tahitian wood carvings range from the abstract to the naturalistic, with fantastical versions of the human body being a feature. These figures likely represent gods, spirits, or human ancestors; some were used for malevolent magic, whilst others were called upon by the community in times of need. Size: 16" L x 11.25" W x 13.5" H (40.6 cm x 28.6 cm x 34.3 cm)
Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection
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#133481
Condition
A few stable fissures throughout. Expected nicks/chips and abrasions as shown, commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and excellent with lovely patina.