Ancestor Figure – Field Collected in Situ, 1990s A powerful and expressive ancestor figure, collected in situ during fieldwork in the 1990s. Sculptures of this type were created to embody the presence of revered ancestors and to maintain a living connection between the human community and the spirit world. Within many Melanesian societies such figures played an essential role in ritual life, serving as guardians, mediators, and focal points for ancestral remembrance. The figure is carved in wood with confident, traditional workmanship. Its form conveys a strong spiritual presence, while the surface displays a beautiful aged patina developed through time and handling. Subtle wear and weathering contribute to the authenticity and character of the piece. Objects of this nature were often kept within the ritual sphere of the community, where they were treated with respect and regarded as more than mere representations—they were considered vessels of ancestral power. Field collected in situ in the 1990s. A compelling and evocative example of Melanesian ancestral sculpture, combining spiritual significance with sculptural strength, and an appealing addition to a serious collection of Oceanic art. We pack with care, sending all over the world for 35 years already A must have for collectors, ethnographers, ethnologists, anthropologists and museums Sold by Koos Knol, ethnographer and anthropologist, dealer of Papua Tribal Art for more than 30 years, expert and author of the book “Papua Blues”, written in Dutch. (Maybe in English next year.)  Published end of October 2024 A book about inside stories, a book that deals with the many encounters with special people in West Papua, the impressive experiences that the author has, about special encounters with men and women who tell him about secret things, about ethnographic objects and initiate him into the rituals and ceremonies. A must have for collectors, ethnographers, ethnologists, anthropologists and museums Google: Papua Blues Koos Knol