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Hôtel des Ventes de Troyes

56 - Statue- Sepik - Papua New Guinea - Materials: Wood Provenanc…
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Estimate €500 - €800
Sale commission
Description
Statue- Sepik - Papua New Guinea - Materials: Wood 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. 62 cm. An important monoxyle male anthropomorphic figure standing in a hieratic posture. The elongated arms are pressed against the body, while the hands enclose the genitals, in a style frequently found in ceremonial sculpture from the Sepik basin. The composition is dominated by an impressive head with an elongated face, characterised by a powerful rounded forehead, deeply incised narrow eyes, a prominent nose and an oval mouth with finely marked teeth. The outline of the face is emphasised by geometric decoration carved in relief. A tall architectural headdress, decorated with repetitive motifs and topped by a stylised zoomorphic element, reinforces the figure's monumental and spiritual character. In Sepik societies, anthropomorphic figures were closely linked to the world of ancestors, spirits and invisible forces involved in the organisation of social, religious and initiation life. Such sculptures could be kept in ceremonial houses, where they helped to materialise the presence of founding ancestors or protective spiritual entities. They were used as part of collective rituals, initiation ceremonies and practices designed to ensure the continuity of lineages, fertility, the prosperity of the group or the protection of the community. Their exact function varied according to cultural group and local context, but their role was generally to mediate between the human and spiritual worlds. The balance of the volumes, the expressive strength of the face and the quality of the sculpture give this work a remarkable presence. The surface has a beautiful dark brown patina from previous use, testifying to its age and history.
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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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