PREHISTORIC ANTHROPOMORPHIC STONE MORTAR, RAMU VALLEY, MADANG PROVINCE, PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Marcia and John Friede, New York, acquired in the 1960s

Very good condition for an object of such great age. Weathered surface as seen in photographs. Remains of dark material in mortar bowl.
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.

According to Friede (personal communication, April 2011), this "prehistoric object was used later by the Rao people from whom it was collected. While Alois Kasprusch recorded four 'mortar spirits' in the Annaberg-Atemble area in 1940, no comparable stone objects are known in Western museum collections. 'Mortar spirits' were objects of veneration and devotion. They received offerings, especially from the Rao, who believed in their fertilizing powers. Rainwater collected in the mortars was drunk by women to overcome infertility (sadly, including sterility caused by venereal diseases caught from gold miners), and was also used for garden magic."