Amulet Figure
Korwar, Geelvink Bay, West Papua
19th Century
Provenance: Old Dutch Collection

Worn on the body and said to instill courage and protection against disaster, amulet figures are an important part of Korwar society. Carved out of wood, these long objects exhibit a small crouched figure at the top. Delicately carved with lattice like decoration, the figure’s head is abnormally large in relation to the figure’s body. The flat face with raised relief hook nose is a common feature in Korwar artistic traditions. The domed cap on top of the object is particularly beautiful in this example. A cosmogram like carving appears on its back.

Height: 5.5 inches
11-7-16 / SOLD