MAPRIK, Papua New Guinea - Lot 292

MAPRIK, Papua New Guinea Set of two ornamental figures used during yam harvest ceremonies. Woven basketry, natural pigments Old patina and marks of use Dimensions: First figure, H47 cm Second figure, H 36 cm Provenance of the larger figure : Former Arte Primitivo sale. Former Steyler Mission Museum collection. Former Georges Holtiler collection, collected in 1930. Professor Kenneth Graham Collection Yam harvest ceremonies are fundamental to the people of the Maprik region of Papua New Guinea. These ornamental figures, made of basketry and decorated with natural pigments, symbolize fertility and prosperity. They embody the protective spirits of the harvest, celebrated through rituals that strengthen the bonds between community members and their natural environment. Expert: Serge REYNES