Ambrym Island, Vanuatu
Early to mid-20th century
Tree fern, breadfruit sap, earth, ash, mineral pigments
Height 114 in / 289.6 cm
Provenance: Acquired in the 1970s from Nicolai Michoutouchkine, Noumea, New Caledonia; Wayne Heathcote, Miami and UK; Texas private collection
A monumental grade society figure from Ambrym Island, carved as part of the maghe ritual system through which individuals advanced in rank, status, and religious knowledge. Figures of this kind were commissioned for specific grades, with the most elevated ranks represented by large full-bodied carvings made from tree fern and coated with a paste of breadfruit sap, earth, and ash before being painted. This example has large disc eyes with red and white spiral motifs associated with meten galgal, the morning star, and retains strong red, green, black, and white painted ornament across the face and body. Such figures were displayed beneath ceremonial dance structures and remained standing afterward as enduring markers of rank and as dwellings for living ancestral spirits. A custom metal base is included.
* Due to size and nature of item please contact us on shipping.
Ambrym Island, Vanuatu
Early to mid-20th century
Tree fern, breadfruit sap, earth, ash, mineral pigments
Height 114 in / 289.6 cm
Provenance: Acquired in the 1970s from Nicolai Michoutouchkine, Noumea, New Caledonia; Wayne Heathcote, Miami and UK; Texas private collection
A monumental grade society figure from Ambrym Island, carved as part of the maghe ritual system through which individuals advanced in rank, status, and religious knowledge. Figures of this kind were commissioned for specific grades, with the most elevated ranks represented by large full-bodied carvings made from tree fern and coated with a paste of breadfruit sap, earth, and ash before being painted. This example has large disc eyes with red and white spiral motifs associated with meten galgal, the morning star, and retains strong red, green, black, and white painted ornament across the face and body. Such figures were displayed beneath ceremonial dance structures and remained standing afterward as enduring markers of rank and as dwellings for living ancestral spirits. A custom metal base is included.
* Due to size and nature of item please contact us on shipping.
