NIAS TRIBAL TREASURES This exceptional and monumental reference work, published on the occasion - Ono Niha, Lake, Batak, Dayak, Toraja - Nias, North Sumatans, Malays, Austronesians, Indonesians - Netherlands (No reserve price)

This exceptional and monumental reference work, published on the occasion of the groundbreaking exhibition at the Nusantara Ethnographic Museum in Delft in 1990, is worldwide regarded as the undisputed standard on the material culture and tribal art of the Indonesian island of Nias. With profound scholarly contributions from leading experts such as Jerome Feldman, this book magnificently documents the cosmic symbolism behind the famous megalithic monuments, the refined architecture, the wooden ancestral figures (adu zatua), and the fabulous, status-enhancing gold jewelry of the Nias elite. The work comprises 327 pages richly illustrated with 50 full-page color plates and 266 detailed black-and-white catalog photographs, indispensable for any serious collector or dealer of early ethnography and Oceanic/Indonesian art.

This copy forms a perfect unit with other high-quality ethnographic publications in this (and upcoming) auctions. It thematically and qualitatively aligns seamlessly with reference works and renowned catalogs from international auction houses, such as:
Beyond the Java Sea – Abrams (for deeper context on the Indonesian archipelago)
Oceanic Art – Anthony J.P. Meyer (for stylistic comparison with island art forms)
Pacific Encounters – Steven Hooper
Arts of the South Seas – Prestel

Bidders are strongly advised to also view the other lots in this auction for a unique opportunity to build up a specialized art-historical library in one go.

This copy is in sublime, pristine mint condition. Due to its age (36 years) and the specific black, matte cover, this edition is extremely sensitive to fingerprints and contact marks; however, this copy has remained virtually unopened. To ensure the absolute integrity of the book’s spine and binding, the auction photos were taken with extreme care at an opening angle of less than 60°. No page creases, no interior discoloration, and completely free of signs of use. A better condition is not available on the market.

In these auctions many high-quality ethnographic publications will be offered, including Africa, Oceania, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. A unique opportunity for the creation or expansion of a specialized art-historical library.

Shipping is carried out with high-quality packaging and Track & Trace.

When purchasing multiple lots, the seller applies a fair adjustment to the shipping costs, commensurate with the total volume and insured value.

Collection in person is possible in The Hague, Benoordehout (2596GN).