Two canoe prow ornaments
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Lot: 190
99th AuctionTwo canoe prow ornaments
Papua New Guinea - Humboldt Bay, Walamo Village
| Provenance | Size | Starting price / estimated price |
|---|---|---|
| American Private Collection | L: 21.7 inch & 22.6 inch |
2000 EUR
plus 23 % commission, VAT, transport and insurance |
wood, rest.
Early examples of intricately carved prow ornaments as made for Walamo fishing canoes.
Traditionally, they are carved with the head of the "Friar bird" ("leather head"), which is believed by the local people to be a messenger from their ancestors, as well as guardians watching over the fishermen at sea.
