Zemanek-Münster

Ancestor figure "korvar"

Westneuguinea / Westpapua (Irian Jaya)
sold EUR 1,600
Provenance
Jan van der Hoeven (1955)
Size
H: 25,5 cm
H: 10.0 inch

Description

wood, reddish brown patina, standing, both arms stretched out to the front resting on two staffs, dominated by a large head with characteristic arrow-shaped nose, slightly dam., rep. (ankles, upperarms), base;
“Korvar” is the name used to describe the art of the geographical and cultural area of Kepala Burung, formerly called “Vogelkop Peninsula”, in north-west Irian Jaya. At the same time figurative representations of ancestors are called “korvar”. “Korvar” provide the link between the worlds of the dead and the living. As in most Oceanic cultures, the ancestor is consulted for advice and help in all major matters.


Comparing literature

Meyer, Anthony J.P., Ozeanische Kunst, Vol. I, Köln 1995, p. 55 f.

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