Lot 44
  • 44

Mimika Drum, Irian Jaya

Estimate
15,000 - 25,000 USD
bidding is closed

Description

  • wood, water monitor lizard
  • Height: 26 3/4 inches (67.9 cm)
the top covered with Water Monitor Lizard (Varanus salvator) skin.

Provenance

Collected in situ by Ingeborg de Beausacq, circa 1957-1959
Julius and Josefa Carlebach, New York
By descent from the above
Private Collection, Brussels

Condition

Good condition for an object of this type and age. General marks, nicks, scratches and abrasions consistent with age and use. Age cracks on either side of the drum have been filled and toned in. Tip of the element above the head of the figural handle broken, glued, and painted. Fine aged dark brown patina.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

According to Meyer (1995: 77), the "Mimika live on the central southern coast of western New Guinea [Irian Jaya], between Triton Bay, the south-eastern boundary of the Korvar area, and the Otokwa River, the western fringe of the Asmat.  The art of the Mimika people is related to its western and eastern neighbors.  Mimika art is more or less unknown outside of the Dutch collections.  It is a strongly architectured art form, with human figures typically carved in a combination of solid and 'empty' parts."

A related drum collected before 1913 is in the Rijksmuseum voor Volkenkunde, Leiden (inv. no. "1971-573b").