Fine Pair Of Male Ancestor Figures-abelam Or Wosera-sepik River-new Guinea-png For Sale

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Southern Abelam or Wosera Culture

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A fine pair of Abelam or Wosera male ancestor figures from the Middle Sepik River - Waskuk Hills region of Papua New Guinea.

Both figures are hand-carved from a dense, heavy hardwood and decorated with painted surfaces.

These figures are old and were made for tribal use.
Early to mid 20th century.

Presently displayed on black-painted metal stands, one with an exhibition number "36" attached. SIZE:

Height (taller statue) - 23.75" / Height (shorter statue) - 22.25" A fine and rare pair of male ancestor figures from the Southern Abelam or Wosera peoples. Both pieces have been rendered in a very naturalistic fashion with great attention to details, such as their body jewellery and facial features. The faces are typical of the style of this area, and have been decorated with the classic yellow and orange ochre.

Although quite stylized, these figures each portray an individual personality and are quite expressive, both in their facial expressions and body language. No doubt they would be recognizable as known and loved individuals to their relatives and friends.

Both figures show a good handling patina, especially the smaller example. The surfaces have become darkened and smooth and glossy in the areas where they were held and handled.

They are in very good tribally-used ethnographic condition, as seen in the photographs, with small losses, worn painted surfaces, an old patina, and general wear. No major losses.

The black metal exhibition bases were custom made for, and are included with the figures.

These figures came from an old Australian collection and were purchased by me, in 2001, from an Australian tribal art gallery. ~ please click on image for high definition photos ~

This item will be a museum quality addition to any collection of Oceanic Art and will display beautifully in any Mid Century Modern, Eames Era, Modernist, South Pacific, or Arts and Crafts decor. Please look carefully at all the photographs to view the details and condition of the item. Please e-mail with any questions ... we always respond quickly!

Shipped from San Francisco, California, USA.
International shipping by USPS.

Items shipped to a location in California are subject to CA State sales tax.All of our pieces are guaranteed authentic, as described, and to your satisfaction, with a full money-back guarantee, including return shipping, if returned promptly and in good condition. Thank you for looking!

This item has been shown 368 times. Fine Pair Of Male Ancestor Figures-abelam Or Wosera-sepik River-new Guinea-png : $732