Magic Amulet

Washkuk, Upper Sepik River, Papua New Guinea
19th Century

While this amulet may be small in scale it is massive in artistic ambition. The surreal nature of the construction is incredible; three faces morph together with wings flanking the sides; perhaps representing a transformation or metamorphosis from animal to human or the transition from the real world to the spirit world. The faces on this amulet are extremely well carved. Each septum is pierced and still retain their nose ornaments. The inside is completely hollowed out and the texture and surface of the wood suggest that this piece was carved with non metal tools. This is a fine and rare example.

This amulet stands 4 inches tall.

SOLD / IN 8-15-09