Protective Ancestor Figure Newari Ethnic Group Kathmandu Valley, Nepal Polychrome wood, fabric, iron Height: 32 cm Width: 10 cm Weight: 240 g Polychrome sculpture depicting an ancestor figure from Nepal. As visible from the three-pronged iron nail placed on the back—an element used in Nepal exclusively for liturgical and apotropaic purposes—the figure likely served a protective and talismanic function. It was probably used to invoke the protection of an ancestor. The sculpture is authentic and shows signs of ritual use. Condition is good, with the original polychromy well preserved (see photos). The piece comes from an old private Italian collection. Tracked shipping available: Poste Italiane, UPS, etc.