A Fine Abelam men's house carving, Abelam, Maprik region; Papua New Guinea
The figure with large head and high raised brow with ridge indicating headgear, with classical Abelam features such as long thin nose and smiling mouth with extensive polychromed surface, the central portion probably once with small arms, now deficient and worn over, the bottom with a reptile climbing upward. Insect depredation and wear, but still powerful and intact. A finer and older example than many. The back with carved loop for attachment to an architectural post. H. 35"
Comments: Property of a New York Private Collector
Provenance: Field collected by John C. Edler among the Abelam over 20 years ago