Large old Asmat carved and painted wood figural sculpture, decorated with a woven hat, belt and ear ornaments. Irian Jaya - Papua New Guinea. Early to mid 20th century. Circa 1940's - 1960s.

Height - 38"

Weight - 9 lb. 3 oz.

This carving depicts two figures, the small figure holding the chest of, and being held by the large figure. Both figures have carved tattoo or skin ornamentations that have been painted black and red.The base of the sculpture is of interest as it has been carved in a way that it most likely fit onto, and was fastened by nails (at one time) onto, the wall or post of a house. It was not carved flat to stand alone and three old nail holes are visible on the base. Old rusty nails hold the headdress to the head. The septum is pierced in the old manner and the figure was carved from a heavy hard wood.

Provenance : From a San Francisco estate collection. Said to have been collected in its present condition during the early 1960s.

CONDITION : Good condition with wear. See photos.

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