A DARK WOOD ‘ANCESTOR’S MINIATURE HEAD’ PENDANT, ASMAT PEOPLE

拍品描述

A DARK WOOD ‘ANCESTOR’S MINIATURE HEAD’ PENDANT, ASMAT PEOPLE This lot is from a single owner collection and is therefore offered without reserve Southwest Papua New Guinea, mid-20th century. Boldly carved, of slightly pointed form, with a grimacing face characterized by bulging eyes beneath a furrowed brow, an aquiline nose, and a broad mouth line, with traces of red pigment. The prominent forehead is carved with striated motifs, echoed on the cheeks. The top of the reverse with a circular loop for suspension. Important Note: For essential information on the Jorgen Ruben Gallery Ledger and provenance documentation please visit here: www.zacke.at/rubencollection_ledger Dimensions: 11.2 cm Located in southwestern New Guinea, the Asmat inhabit an extensive network of rivers that flow into the Arafura Sea. With an estimated population of approximately 70,000, the Asmat are organized into several hundred villages, ranging from 35 to 2,000 inhabitants in size. Wood carving lies at the heart of Asmat artistic and spiritual life, and accomplished carvers, known as wowipits, hold considerable prestige within the community. Their craft is traced to the culture hero Fumeripits, the first woodcarver, whose creative legacy they are entrusted to continue. This tradition reflects the profound Asmat belief in the kinship between humans and trees, with wood understood as a vital source of life. According to Asmat mythology, Fumeripits was the first being on earth and the creator of the jeu, the ceremonial men’s house where community affairs are discussed, artworks produced, and rituals performed. Weary of dancing alone, he felled trees and carved them into human figures, but they remained lifeless. He then fashioned a drum from wood and lizard skin; as he played, the figures stirred, their limbs loosened, and they came to life in dance. Literature comparison: Compare a related dark wood human head, Papua New Guinea, Asmat people, 16 cm high, in the British Museum, registration number Oc1969,13.22.

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