A Fine Kwoma Nogwei figure. Kwoma people, Washkuk Hills, East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea.Finely carved with the female figure standing with typically carved Kwoma face with high brow, large phallic nose and smiling mouth, the body well-proportioned and remains of pigment representing traditional body painting over a dirty and encrusted surface from use. Nogwei figures belonged to the highest level of fertility rites among the Washkuk and could only be owned by important men of status. The female figures were elaborately decorated and displayed in the men’s house during use. When not used they were stored, resulting in a layer of soot from coking-fire smoke and dirt.Acquired by Marc Seidler from Lynda Cunningham, C. 1981. The sculpture measures 38 inches tall x 6 inches wide.

Good, well handled