Neck Rest
Boiken, East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea, 19th century
Provenance: John Friede, Rye, NY.

Shown upright, this Boiken Neck Rest looks more like an elaborate statue, heavily decorated with a rich dark patina. This particular example, carved out of wood, is bowed in the middle, where the head would have rested. One end is carved into the head of a spirit figure. The face is expressive, with large circular eyes and double hooked nose, features stylistically representative of the Sepik River regions. The underbelly of the neck rest is decorated in series of geometric designs, giving the object beautiful texture and depth. The Neck Rest is missing one set of its bamboo and rattan wrapped legs.

Height: 16.25 in
IN 11-13-14/ Price: $5000