Lot 47
  • 47

Massue, Îles Tonga, Polynésie

Estimate
12,000 - 18,000 EUR
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Description

  • Îles Tonga
  • Massue
  • wood, shell (gastropoda spp)
  • long. 99 cm
  • 39 in

Provenance

Collection privée

Condition

Very good condition overall. Wear consistent with age and use within the culture. Five old holes under the base. A few cracks over the entire length. The carving, of great finesse, is very well preserved.
"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."

Catalogue Note

apa'apai, entièrement ornée d'un décor géométrique dont les sections sont ponctuées en champlevé de six figures humaines - dont deux à la tête tranchée -, de motifs animaliers (mammifères, oiseaux, poissons), et d'une liane s'enroulant autour du fût. A la richesse du décor historié et à la superbe qualité de la gravure s'ajoutent les quatre rares inclusions de coquillage, chacune cernée d'un motif rayonnant.