Ancestor Figure

Ramu; Lower Sepik River; PNG
19th Century
Ex: Jef Van der Straete, Lasne Belgium

This ancestor figure is a beautiful example of early Ramu art. Standing on strong legs surmounted by a tightly carved angular torso and classically conceived projecting head. The 'texture' of the wood suggests that this piece was carved with non metal tools. The fine aged patina exhibits decades of use and most of the original pigments are intact. In excellent condition.

This figure stands 8.5 inches tall.

SOLD / IN 2003