Southeast Asia, Indonesia, western Irian Jaya / West Papua, Asmat people, ca. mid to late 20th century CE. A fine openwork ancestor pole, skillfully crafted from wood that presents in hues of creamy beige and tan. The intriguing sculpture depicts two nude figures, one standing on the shoulders of the lower, as the top figure holds a long paddle, and the bottom supports the paddle with his thumbs while holding a decapitated head. Decorated with scarification marks, both figures present slender bodies and lengthy limbs. Their sizeable heads each display a stylized visage of large eyes beneath a heavy brow, a prominent nose, and a petite, open mouth. The long paddle boasts a lovely relief motif of a swirling, abstract design. Size: 5.5" L x 3.5" W x 35" H (14 cm x 8.9 cm x 88.9 cm)

Provenance: ex-Stein collection, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, USA, acquired prior to 2010; ex-Haig's of Rochester, Rochester, Michigan USA, acquired October 15th, 2007; ex-Artemis Gallery, Louisville, Colorado, USA

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#163925

Stable fissures to head of top figure and base. Losses to base. A few light nicks and abrasions in areas. Otherwise, excellent with lovely earthen deposits.