A CANOE PRAU ORNAMENT NGUZU NGUZU

Important Aboriginal + Oceanic Art
Melbourne
14 October 2009
201

Oceanic Artefacts

Solomon Islands, c.1980s
A CANOE PRAU ORNAMENT NGUZU NGUZU

finely carved in the form of a human face, carved pieces of pearl shell inlaid for eyes, and in patterns surrounding the eyes, on the cheeks and chin area, and in a circular pattern on the elongated ears. The arms are bent with a post supporting the chin, the open mouth showing bared teeth, the nose pierced with a large tooth, possibly canine. The forehead is bound with plaited fibre under which is human hair. Pierced on the reverse for attachment and old patina overall.

32.0 cm height

inscribed verso: Holt Collection cat.H950

Estimate: 
$1,200 - 1,800
Sold for $1,200 (inc. BP) in Auction 11 - 14 October 2009, Melbourne