Ancestor Figure

Leti Island, Indonesia
19th Century
Previous collection: Ely Jacques Kahn (1884-1972) decent through family
Kevin Conru, Brussels, London


This is the archetype of Leti Island sculpture. Known as ‘iene’; these figures are made by specialists five days after a death; which is the appropriate moment for the soul to enter the figure; they represent protective spirits. This example is beautifully carved with elegant lines and great attention to detail. The elaborate earrings and coiffure on this sculpture indicate the rank and social function of the deceased of which this is an effigy. The patina is deep from decades of handling and storage.

This figure stands 5.5 inches in height.

SOLD / IN 2106