Sold
West Papua New Guinea, North West Asmat, ca. mid 20th century CE. A very large wooden Asmat shield, the upper section finely carved on both sides with a pair of openwork human figures (one seated, one standing above in a striding pose that reveals his genitalia) accompanied by three bird-like creatures, the board below carved in relief on one side with stylized geometric motifs, painted in red and white which contrasts nicely with the natural beige/brown tones of the wood; the other side with a concave profile. Because of their symbolic and emotional value shields were precious and in the North Western Asmat region passed down from father to son. Wired for suspension on backside. Size: 11.375″ W x 50.25″ H (28.9 cm x 127.6 cm)
For further information about Asmat shields see Dirk Smidt, Asmat Art, New York: Braziller, 1993. Smidt writes, “In a culture where death was never accidental and all required avenging in a continuous cycle of warfare, shields served a practical purpose of protection but also the symbols carved on the shields radiated power, invigorating the shields owner and striking fear into the enemy. The shields are named after dead relatives. The magical powers of the shield gave the carrier exceptional power combining his strength with that of the deceased ancestor to which the shield shared the name. The shields were used not just in battle but to scare off evil spirits that may have brought misfortune to the village. These shields were made for a shield feast which initiated a headhunting expedition.”
Condition: Figural section shows repairs from about half a dozen pieces, with a few small losses and visible fissures. Lower section shows slight surface wear and pigment losses, but otherwise excellent.
Provenance: private Ventura County, California, USA collection
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all purchases.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
