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Hôtel des Ventes de Troyes

18 - - Spatula - Manam Island - Papua New Guinea - France Provena…
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Estimate €150 - €300
Sale commission
Description
- Spatula - Manam Island - 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. 66 cm - Materials: Wood This elegant carved spatula is attributed to the volcanic island of Manam, off the north-east coast of Papua New Guinea. Its elongated shape, narrow blade with rounded ends and, above all, the quality of its carved decoration bring it close to examples documented in this region. The upper part is decorated with a stylised anthropomorphic figure surmounting a central aperture. On either side of this opening are deeply carved concentric motifs, typical of the decorative vocabulary of the north coast of Papua. The whole piece is dominated by a particularly balanced symmetrical composition, alternating sculpted volumes and smooth surfaces with a patina of use. Spatulas of this type were used to prepare and handle food, particularly sago, but the most elaborate examples also had a prestigious function. The presence of a human figure and the richness of the ornamentation bear witness to the symbolic importance attached to these everyday objects in Melanesian societies.
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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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