Korwar, Amulet Figure
Geelvink Bay, West Papua
19th-early 20th c.
Provenance: Old American collection, then by descent to family member
This amulet figure is unique, as it is quite large, approaching the scale of a full sized ancestor figure. Korwar amulets represent an ancestral spirit and served many functions. They were attached to objects in order to prevent theft, worn by young men in order to attract girls, as well as used to enhance success during hunting and warfare. This particular example is masterly conceived. It has a large head with arrow shaped nose and glass inset eyes. The elongated body with scrolling limbs and arched back sits behind a large shield richly decorated with classical ornamentation. Carved from hard wood it’s in excellent condition.
Korwar, Amulet Figure
Geelvink Bay, West Papua
19th-early 20th c.
Provenance: Old American collection, then by descent to family member
This amulet figure is unique, as it is quite large, approaching the scale of a full sized ancestor figure. Korwar amulets represent an ancestral spirit and served many functions. They were attached to objects in order to prevent theft, worn by young men in order to attract girls, as well as used to enhance success during hunting and warfare. This particular example is masterly conceived. It has a large head with arrow shaped nose and glass inset eyes. The elongated body with scrolling limbs and arched back sits behind a large shield richly decorated with classical ornamentation. Carved from hard wood it’s in excellent condition.