1 / 12
Photo 1/12 du lotPhoto 2/12 du lotPhoto 3/12 du lotPhoto 4/12 du lotPhoto 5/12 du lotPhoto 6/12 du lotPhoto 7/12 du lotPhoto 8/12 du lotPhoto 9/12 du lotPhoto 10/12 du lotPhoto 11/12 du lotPhoto 12/12 du lot
Featured lot selected by the auctions House.
Hôtel des Ventes de Troyes

53 - Neck rest - Sepik river - Papua New Guinea - France Provenan…
See original version (French)

Estimate €600 - €800
Sale commission
Description
Neck rest - Sepik river - 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. 53 cm - Materials: Wood A rare openwork neckrest with a particularly elegant and dynamic silhouette. The object is made up of two curved uprights joined at their centres by a carved strut, creating a light structure in which the voids contribute fully to the balance of the composition. Each end is adorned with a stylised head with geometric lines, whose pure forms are in keeping with the artistic vocabulary characteristic of the Sepik region. The contours, underlined by discreet serrations, the taut volumes and the quality of the sculpture bear witness to mastery of the work. The surface has a beautiful dark brown patina, satin-finished with age and use, revealing the age of the piece. Neck rests from New Guinea were used to preserve elaborate hairstyles during sleep, while insulating the head from the ground. In addition to their practical function, they were also prestigious objects, often decorated with protective motifs or figures. With its ethereal design, elegant lines and fine craftsmanship, this piece is one of the most attractive examples of Sepik sculptural art.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
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
You may also like