Bouclier, Mappi ou Digul, Papouasie Nouvelle-Guinée

Collection Marcia et John Friede, New York

Good condition overall; wear consistent with age and use within the culture. Thin scratches and some small cracks. Traces of insect incrustation. A few losses to the edges. Fine, bi-coloured back (one side with ochre pigment) and encrusted polychrome pigments to the front.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Les anciens boucliers Mapi ou Digul sont rares. Ici le mouvement du support à la forme incertaine s'accélère dans le dessin nerveux des motifs aux contours champlevés, orientés l'un vers l'autre. La tension du dessin est accentuée par la prégnance du décor pictural aboutissant à un visage stylisé. Au tranchant de la polychromie répond, au dos, la beauté épurée des aplats ocre jaune et ocre orangé, délimités par la nervure médiane dentelée, dans laquelle est sculptée la poignée.