Spring Antique Art and Arms, April 10th, 2021
Lot 140:
From old collection a big Asmat shield, gathered during a sending of a Dutch Vicar in the Asmat region of Papua.This shield is deep cut from the massive buttress roots of mangrove trees. The shields were used in headhunting ritual prior to a headhunting expedition. Such a shield was given the name of an ancestor which the owner was depicted on it and gave courage and strength and made him invulnerable.The ancestor figures on top of this shield is very specific and is part of the distinguishing clan. This shield has designs that are carved by the carver of the clan and stained by clay and vegetable pigments. This piece has deep carvings and perfect patina of tribal use. Look at the great carved out hands at both sides of the handel. Definitely no tourist piece.60" x 17 1/2"
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