Abelam Statue, Papouasie
Stunning ABELAM statue carved from hardwood and polychromed
height 72 cm
19th–20th century
The Abelam ceremonial house, or KOROMBO, was the village’s ritual center. Behind the tall triangular façade, entirely covered in multicolored paint depicting ancestors andother spirits, was a space where the Abelam kept statues, paintings, and other ritual objects associated with their ancestors.This large male figure—NGGWALNDU—or “the father of the father” was also kept in the initiation houses. The art objects found in the KOROMBO represented clan spirits or supernatural beings. The NGGWALNDU were among the most powerful of all. Initiates werenot informed of their identity until the end of the initiation, which could sometimes last more than thirty years. The NGGWALNDU are usually painted in bright colors, and at the top of the head, the hornbill isdepicted. The hornbill was an important totem animal for the Abelams.
Provenance: David LIVORNESE
Collection: Michael HAMSON, U.S.A.
Free shipping within the European Union
500 euros for international shipping
height 72 cm
19th–20th century
The Abelam ceremonial house, or KOROMBO, was the village’s ritual center. Behind the tall triangular façade, entirely covered in multicolored paint depicting ancestors andother spirits, was a space where the Abelam kept statues, paintings, and other ritual objects associated with their ancestors.This large male figure—NGGWALNDU—or “the father of the father” was also kept in the initiation houses. The art objects found in the KOROMBO represented clan spirits or supernatural beings. The NGGWALNDU were among the most powerful of all. Initiates werenot informed of their identity until the end of the initiation, which could sometimes last more than thirty years. The NGGWALNDU are usually painted in bright colors, and at the top of the head, the hornbill isdepicted. The hornbill was an important totem animal for the Abelams.
Provenance: David LIVORNESE
Collection: Michael HAMSON, U.S.A.
Free shipping within the European Union
500 euros for international shipping
3 500 €
Period: 20th century
Style: Tribal Art
Condition: Condition of use
Material: Painted wood
Reference (ID): 1784652
Availability: In stock
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