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Abelam Ancestor

 

Ancestor Sculpture

Papua New Guinea

116 x 20 cm

Wood, polychrome pigments  

Clan ancestor sculptures like this one that incorporate the locally powerful image of the winged hornbill (surmount) are used to evoke the presence of ancestors during yam or initiation ceremonies.
Found in the men's ceremonial house tamberan of the Maprik area, they are extremely sacred and serve as fertility symbols for the people and the yam crop.

This bright artefact would complement today's furnishings as a visual accent and cultural diversion.


Well weathered with well preserved pigments. In good condition.

AUD$420