Papua New Guinea, Sepic Region, ca. 19th to 20th century CE. A mesmerizing wooden flute stopper with a janiform face at the bottom featuring 4 cowrie shell eyes (2 on each face) and a lizard-like creature at the top of its fabulous tripartite body which is extensively incised with curvilinear motifs. Flutes are regarded as among the most significant and sacred musical instruments for most New Guinea peoples. Traditionally made from hollow bamboo cylinders and played by blowing through a hole near the upper end on the side of the instrument, in a similar manner to those of the West, oftentimes, the tops of these flutes were fitted with ornamental flute stoppers like this example. Size: 2.875" in diameter at the base x 16.25" H (7.3 cm x 41.3 cm); 17.125" H (43.5 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; purportedly ex De Young Museum; ex John Friede collection, 2017

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#154516

Minor wear to the woven raffia lower section but overall remarkably well preserved. Nick to nose of zoomorphic finial at the top. Age crack to the wooden janiform head. Incised and carved details are well preserved. Minor surface wear with abrasions to pigmentation on the janus head. Minute scuffs and nicks to the extended section between. Attached to the stand.