Ancestor Figure

Keram River; Papua New Guinea
Late 19th/Early 20th Century
Previous Collection: Dr. Alan Solem curator at the Field Museum of natural History, Chicago. Dr. Solem died in 1990


This is a superb example of Keram River sculpture. Representing the ancestor clan; the main figure is conceived in powerful form with archetypical angular face and a body with great poise. What is most interesting about this figure is its totem like form; with a smaller carved ancestor sculpted with great tension and power on the reverse side; it is as if it is going to leap from the sculpture to protect its brothers not yet in the spirit world. The septum’s are pierced as well as the ears; which all still retain the original fiber ornaments. Carved from hardwood with non-metal tools.

This figure stands 24.5 inches tall.

SOLD / IN 2-14-10