Ancestor figure
Tanimbar, Indonesia
19th century

Figures from this region are extremely rare. This highly elaborate female figure holding an offering bowl was carved with wonderful attention to detail. The face is expressive with a complex coiffure consisting of a top knot and wearing a comb. The rich volumes of the sculpture are impressive, the flattened buttock to the v-tapering of the back are classic details found only on early examples. The treatment of the feet is unusual and inventive, as they are carved arching upwards towards the legs. Carved from hardwood with areas of encrustation.

This figure stands 4.8 inches tall
5-13-12/ SOLD