Tami Ceremonial Bowl, Tami Islands, Huon Gulf, Papua New Guinea

painted in red with inventory number "3441[?]"

Morris and Camilla Pinto, New York

Good condition for an object of this type and age. One end with repaired cracks. Marks, nicks, scratches, abrasions, and small chips throughout. Age cracks. Surface is weathered and worn. Fine aged reddish dark brown patina with encrustation.
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 Kjellgren (2007: 115), "Up to the 1920s the Tami Islands, a group of small islets that lie off the eastern tip of the Huon Peninsula, were the most prolific and influential center of art production in northeastern New Guinea.  [...]  The most important trade item produced by the Tami were intricately carved hardwood bowls, which formed an essential component of the bridewealth gifts exchanged at marriage ceremonies throughout the region.  The Tami, who often had to import much of their food from neighboring groups in exchange for trade items, maintained a jealously guarded monopoly on the production of ritual bowls until the 1920s.  Superbly crafted and highly polished, Tami bowls were not intended for mundane use; they served instead as ceremonial vessels, employed for the preparation and distribution of food during important feasts and rituals."