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Hôtel des Ventes de Troyes

28 - Spoon - Sepik / Ramu region - Papua New Guinea Provenance: F…
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Estimate €150 - €300
Sale commission
Description
Spoon - Sepik / Ramu region - Papua New Guinea 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 Ceremonial spoon made from a carefully hollowed and polished coconut shell. Its slender profile, reminiscent of a crescent moon, is extended by a small handle, the end of which is carved with a stylised head, now softened by use and time. With its sober form, this piece is a perfect illustration of the aesthetic of many prestigious utilitarian objects from New Guinea, where the elegance of the proportions and the quality of the patina often take precedence over the abundance of decoration. The surface, deeply satin-finished by repeated handling, reveals the warm nuances of the coconut shell and bears witness to long use. Spoons of this type were used to eat food or prepare special dishes in a ceremonial or community context. Examples with carved handles are generally considered more prestigious than simple utilitarian vessels. This piece captivates by the purity of its line, the delicacy of its curve and the discreet expression of the small anthropomorphic figure that animates it. Its purity and beautiful antique patina make it a particularly elegant example of the arts of northern New Guinea.
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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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