1950年代的祖灵像，来自男子之家。 - 阿斯马特中部 - 西巴布亚 (沒有保留價)

Rare Antique Asmat Figure – Central Asmat, 1950s

This exquisite Asmat figure originates from a men’s house in Central Asmat, one of the cultural heartlands of the Asmat people in South-Western New Guinea. It was collected by a colonial family between 1950 and 1955, making it not only a rare early post-war example but also a piece with a well-documented provenance.

The figure possesses a striking presence, immediately drawing the eye with its expressive form and meticulous detailing. Every element of the carving reflects the traditional Asmat aesthetic, from the flowing lines and geometric motifs to the bold rendering of human features. The figure exemplifies the ritual and social significance of Asmat carvings, which were often used in ancestral veneration and ceremonial life.

What makes this piece particularly exceptional is the superior craftsmanship and sense of vitality it conveys—qualities that are increasingly rare in post-war Asmat works. The patina shows age and handling, yet the structure remains solid and intact, preserving its authenticity and ceremonial energy.

This is a museum-quality object and a highly desirable collector’s piece, offering a unique window into mid-20th-century Asmat culture and artistry. It is ideal for collectors of Oceanic art, tribal carvings, and ethnographic masterpieces, and will make a distinguished addition to any serious collection.

Packed with care
Sending worldwide

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