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Bruce Frank Primitive Art
New York City, NY
+1 917 733 9589

Ancestor Figure, iene

Leti Island, Indonesia
19th Century

Previous collections: Philippe Guimiot, Brussels. Private European collection

This small, but beautifully carved seated figure is from the island of Leti in Indonesia. Originally kept within the home, these figures represent recently deceased family members and served as a vessel through which a spirit could temporarily reside, receive offerings, or be consulted about important matters. This example is beautifully carved with elegant lines and great attention to detail. The elaborate earrings and large crown on this sculpture indicate it represented an ancestor of very high social status and rank.  The patina is deep and encrusted from decades of handling and storage.

Ancestor Figure, iene

Leti Island, Indonesia
19th Century

Previous collections: Philippe Guimiot, Brussels. Private European collection

This small, but beautifully carved seated figure is from the island of Leti in Indonesia. Originally kept within the home, these figures represent recently deceased family members and served as a vessel through which a spirit could temporarily reside, receive offerings, or be consulted about important matters. This example is beautifully carved with elegant lines and great attention to detail. The elaborate earrings and large crown on this sculpture indicate it represented an ancestor of very high social status and rank.  The patina is deep and encrusted from decades of handling and storage.

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