1970s Aswat Shield Papua New Guinea

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This authentic Asmat wood panel showcases traditional architectural and ceremonial carving traditions from Southwestern Papua, Indonesia. Hand-carved from a single … Read more This authentic Asmat wood panel showcases traditional architectural and ceremonial carving traditions from Southwestern Papua, Indonesia. Hand-carved from a single piece of dense hardwood, the sculpture features and ornate openwork framework surrounding a central oval panel deeply etched with repetitive tribal motifs.

At the apex, stylized ancestral figures stand prominently with fibrous ear embellishments, gripping ritual spears and bows. The composition is heavily anchored at the base by a detailed crocodile motif., a powerful symbol of strength, spiritual protection, and regional mythology in Asmat culture, The entire piece is rendered in a deep natural espresso finish, higlighted by fine incised lines that give the relief work texture and dimension. See less