Lower Sepik River Male Figure, Papua New Guinea

Collected in situ by Ingeborg de Beausacq
Julius and Josefa Carlebach, New York (inv. no. "25376"), acquired from the above in 1958
Zafrira and Itzhak Shoher, Tel Aviv, acquired from the above

Very good condition for an object of this type and age. Insect damage and age cracks to back of head extending into back. Chipping around top of finial above head. Other minor insect damage throughout including a hole in inside of left knee. Remains of insect casings in some recesses. Vertical hairline age cracks throughout. Fine aged patina, with remains of red and black pigment and black crust on the nose. White-painted number "25376" painted on back of neck.
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.

Discussing a related figure, Smidt (in Kooten and Heuvel 1990: 234) notes: "The scarification motifs on both male and female figures often signify animals (or part of animals) that can probably be considered totemic animals of the various clans."  The present figure features frogs carved in relief at each upper leg and incised fish on either side of the abdomen.