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Hôtel des Ventes de Troyes

57 - Wheel of a pirogue - Murik Lakes - Papua New Guinea Provenan…
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Estimate €500 - €800
Sale commission
Description
Wheel of a pirogue - Murik Lakes - 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. 87 cm - Materials: Wood An important ceremonial pirogue prow carved in high relief, with a vertical composition dominated by a seated anthropomorphic figure occupying the central register. The figure, with its deliberately stylised forms and highly geometric limbs, is surmounted by a series of symbolic motifs and the head of a spirit or ancestor whose features are highlighted by light-coloured highlights. A decorative band punctuated with geometric motifs separates the different registers of the composition. The people of the Murik Lakes region attached great importance to the ceremonial boats used for travel, trade and ritual events. The sculpted prows were true representations of the spiritual world, combining ancestral figures, protective spirits and mythological references to ensure the prestige and protection of the crew. This example stands out for the quality of its sculptural architecture, the balance of its volumes and the expressive vigour of its decoration. The alternation of patinated surfaces and motifs highlighted with light pigments accentuates the legibility of the composition and highlights the remarkable sculptural work. A work that is particularly representative of the art of the northern coast of 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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