Victory Trumpet
Iatmul, Middle Sepik River Region
19th Century
Provenance: Old American Collection, acquired from Wayne Heathcote, London

Few examples of Iatmul trumpets exist today. This is an impressive example of a sophisticated sculptural tradition. The body of the horn is beautiful; designed in circular patterns. Two ancestor faces are visible on the upper and lower external sides of the trumpet. The tapered end of the trumpet has been carved into the head of a composite animal with inlaid shell eyes. These trumpets were side-blown, and the mouthpiece is visible with notable wear. Stone carved, these horns were used to celebrate a war victory.

Height: 17 inches
IN 3-10-16 / Price on Request