A Fine Massim Canoe splashboard; Trobriand Islands, Massim Region, Milne bay province, Papua New Guinea.Of typical form the double lobed board with elaborate curvilinear motifs deeply carved on the surface, a central figure at the top, the patina greyed and worn.Splashboards of this type were used to decorate the fronts of Kula exchange canoes throughout the Massim area and were painted in red, white and black. This is an older example with remains of only mineral pigments as opposed to the enamel paints found on most later pieces. The central figure was believed to be a magical protector of the canoe. Acquired by Marc Seidler from Lynda Cunningham, C. 1980s. Measures 21.75 inches tall x 25.5 inches wide. Dense heavy wood.

Good, well weathered