Wood
Biwat peoples, Lower Sepik River, Papua New Guinea
A seated female figure with arms bent and legs opened and flexed to the sides
Beautifully symmetrical body with small pendant breasts, bulbous abdomen with protruding navel and accentuated sex
Expressively carved face with a long hooked nose, deep round eyes inlaid with shells and protruding slit mouth
Fine varied reddish brown patina of use with remains of ochre-red pigment
A carved hole for suspension to the back of the head
Mounted on a metal base
Height: 50 cm
Good condition
Provenance: ex-Collection John & Marcia Friede, Long Island, USA; Philip and Rosalind Goldman, London

The style of the present figure, especially the facial features, attributes it to the art of the Lower Sepik, presumably the Biwat peoples. The function of this specific figure remains unknown, but it most likely represents a mythical ancestor and the female is presumably depicted in a position of giving birth. Like most Sepik statues, the present was probably placed in a ceremonial men’s house.



Literature:

Published in John Friede et al., New Guinea Art: Masterpieces of the Jolika Collection, San Francisco 2005, p. 106, no. 151



Condition:

The figure is in good condition with signs of wear consistent with age and use. A loss to the left foot and upper arm. Minor surface abrasions. The height measures 50 cm.

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