Ancestor Figure

Murik Lakes, Papua New Guinea
19th c

Previous Collection: Douglas Newton, New York. John and Marcia Friede, Rye

Published: Adrienne Kaeppler, Douglas Newton, Peter Gathercole. The Art of the Pacific Islands. Washington DC: The National Gallery, 1979: 294 (fig.22.3) Caption listing only, no photo of the object. John A. Friede, editor. New Guinea Art: Masterpieces from the Jolika Collection. San Francisco and Milan: Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco and 5 Continents Editions 2005: 89 (fig. 42).

Exhibited: National Gallery of Art, East Building, Washington DC. The Art of the Pacific Islands, July 1, 1979-February 17, 1980. DeYoung Museum Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, CA. The Jolika Collection, Marcia and John Friede, 2005-2011.

This ancestral figure originates from the Murik Lakes region in Papua New Guinea. It was crafted to be easily carried by individuals for protection or affixed to objects to ensure success. With its authoritative presence, this figure exudes power. Its body displays remarkable torque, while its traditionally rendered face features a long- pierced nose and deep-set oval eyes, evoking a sense of tradition and wisdom. The profile is particularly striking, revealing the subtle tilt of the figure. Carved from medium-density wood, the sculpture bears traces of old red pigments that have endured the test of time. Despite one of its arms being missing, the sculpture retains its potency and continues to captivate with its compelling presence.