Sepik, Beaked Ancestor Figure, Papua New Guinea, c.
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Description
Sepik, Papua New Guinea, circa 1940
Ancestor figure holding another figure representing the spirits of the bush
With a high complex coiffure and beak-like nose projecting to the abdomen
Some patina of use
Height: 58 cm
Provenance: Private collection, Brandenburg
Ornate ‘beak style’ figure, carved with great love for detail
The present Sepik carving represents a hybrid figure with a prominent beak-like nose. The figure has large ears and accentuated eyes with a high coiffure that is elaborately carved and decorated. Standing on a round patterned plinth it holds another figure in front of its lower body. This so-called ‘beak style’ is a prevalent manner of representation in the lower Sepik area and symbolizes the connection between man and bird, which is regarded as carrier of the human souls into the afterworld.
The figure is in good condition with signs of wear consistent with age and use. There are some age cracks and minor abrasions to the surface. The height measures 58 cm. (tfa)
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