Male figure

Characteristic of statuary from the coastal region of the Ramu River or the island of Manam, notably for its champlevé sculpted headdress, this figure stands out for the power of its volumes.

A large head, with a smiling face and a mouth finely engraved on either side with semi-circles depicting a beard, is placed directly on a body with a thick chest adorned with a geometric design under the chin.

An imposing curved nose affirms the ancestor’s virility. The septum and ears are pierced to attach ornaments.

The bent legs, without feet, are fixed on a circular base. Arms detached from the body, stylized hands resting on the thighs.

Representing an important ancestor of the clan, these figures were intended to accompany each individual through every stage of his or her life, starting with initiation.

“Most often kept in men’s homes, these sculptures received offerings of flowers, areca nuts or betel leaves during invocations “¹.

1- Peltier- Schindlbeck & Kaufmann, 2015, p.182

Price: €7,800