A superb Malagan Friction Drum, New Ireland, Papua New Guinea

livika, of compact proportions with a rounded back and three upturned hooks to the front, two narrow eyes flanking the sides; exceptionally fine encrusted and partially lustrous varied brown patina.

Eliot Elisofon (1911-1973), New York, reportedly by the 1930s
Acquired from the above in September 1972

Good condition overall; hole on top for mounting, restored; minor surface abrasions from age and use within the culture; minor areas of old insect damage; fine encrusted surface smoothly worn from extensive use.
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 1911 in lower Manhattan, Eliot Elisofon went on to become one of the most prominent art and news photographers of his generation. As a world traveler he was also a filmmaker and author of numerous books and articles in well-known American magazines, such as Life and National Geographic. For collectors of African art Elisofon is best known for his 1958 book The Sculpture of Africa, with text by William Fagg. 

A founding trustee of the Museum of African Art, in Washington, D.C., Elisofon bequeathed his substantial collections of African art, field photographs, and film material to this institution, which became the foundation of the Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives at today's National Museum of African Art - Smithsonian Institution. The superb New Ireland friction drum from the Rosenthal Collection gives testimony to Elisofon's wide-reaching interests and aesthetic sensibilities.