The handle of this rare grip comb is carved with a (female?) standing figure, arms detached from the body, hands resting on large thighs. The head, with its elongated skull, features a smiling face. The figure rests on a hollowed-out triangle with engraved decoration supporting thirteen carved teeth.
This beautiful comb is distinguished by its large dimensions. It was probably used as a head ornament, planted in the hair, or as a ceremonial object.
The geographic location of this comb remains uncertain. While the Middle Sepik region seems the most likely for its stylistics, it would appear to have been made in an area between the border of the Southern Abelam and the Western Sawos.
Price: €5,800