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Hôtel des Ventes de Troyes

3 - Spoon - Abelam - Papua New Guinea - France Provenance: Forme…
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Estimate €150 - €300
Sale commission
Description
Spoon - Abelam - Papua New Guinea - France Provenance: Former Guy Seghers collection (Belgium). Collected in Papua New Guinea between 1970 and 1980 during scientific missions linked to the Leopold III Biological Station on Laing Island. Archives and period photographs preserved. Dimensions: H. 14 cm - Materials: Coconut A spoon with an elegant arched profile, the end of the handle carved with a small stylised head. The surface is decorated with fine engraved motifs enhanced with light pigment, forming a pattern of spirals, concentric ovals and geometric figures characteristic of the artistic traditions of the Eastern Sepik. The Abelam accorded an essential place to the sculpted arts as part of ceremonies, exchanges and the affirmation of social prestige. Everyday objects intended for ritual or ceremonial use were often given a particularly elaborate decorative treatment, transforming utilitarian forms into vehicles for artistic expression. This spoon stands out for the elegant sobriety of its line, the quality of its engraved decoration and the delicacy of the small anthropomorphic figure carved at its tip. The ancient patina and traces of use bear witness to an object that lived a truly ceremonial life before joining Western collections. This is a fine example of Sepik art, where mastery of drawing and sculpture is evident in even the most modest objects.
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About the sale ARTS OF AFRICA & OCEANIA: Three exceptional family collections
Auction location
Auction time 06/22/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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