A Fine Nias Male Ancestor Figure, Republic of Indonesia

the seated male figure holding a vessel and wearing an elaborate crown with three crests; old label 'l.R.O.Altman' and 'G.'; fine medium to dark brown patina with traces of black pigment. 

Ralph C. Altman (1909-1967), Los Angeles
Patricia B. Altman, Los Angeles, by descent from the above

Los Angeles, The Ethnic Art Galleries, UCLA, Ralph C. Altman Memorial Exhibition, April 8 - June 30, 1968

The Museum and Laboratories of Ethnic Arts and Technology, UCLA (eds.), Ralph C. Altman Memorial Exhibition, Los Angeles, 1968, p. 28, cat. 151

good ocndition overall; age cracks throughout as seen on photogrpahs, left tip of moustache chipped, age crack on front part of crown; chips on top element of crown; fine medium to dark brown patina with traces of black pigment.
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.

Born in Mannheim, Germany, Ralph C. Altman emigrated to the United States in 1937. In 1946 he opened Altman Antiques, a gallery for "primitive art" in Los Angeles. In 1956, he joined the University of California as a lecturer, and in 1963 was appointed the Founding Director of the Museum and Laboratories of Ethnic Arts and Technology, later to become the Fowler Museum at UCLA. He was instrumental in acquiring the Sir Henry Wellcome Collection, which became the foundation of the Fowler's extraordinary growth.