Wooden Amulet Figure

Korwar, Geelvink Bay, West Papua New Guinea, 19th C
PROVENANCE: Acquired by the artist Fernand Dereze in the 1950's. Collection Bergognon, France.

Korwars figures portray recently deceased ancestors in Papua New Guinea. Korwar imagery is highly conventionalized, usually depicting seated human figures. Some Korwar, such as this, are used as amulets. These wooden amulets, in their original condition, are extremely rare. This figure is distinctive of Korwar style; depicted in the crouched position with facial features delineated by simple lines. The original cord and attached beads, added so that the amulet could be worn around the neck, are still present.

Height: 3.75 " in.
IN 2-6-14 / SOLD