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Object Number 65-19-70/4606
Display Title Bisjpole - 15' 6 1/2" high
Descriptions
Inventory Description Housepole, carving from single tree, two anthropomorphic nude male figures, both standing, one on the other's shoulders. Both with incised curvilinear and geometric designs on arms, chest, legs. Crest protruding from chest of upper figure, curving designs with open perforated areas between. Smaller figure at top of crest, also similarly incised. Entire pole has areas of white and reddish ochre pigment, and black soot or pigment. Plant fiber tassels at ankles, knees, waist, elbows, and ears of figures, and along edges of crest. Lower figure holds human face between his hands, above his pelvis. Tapered extension below lower figure, likely for securing the post in the ground. Extensive splits, cracks, and insect holes throughout; still structurally sound.
Classification
  • Carving
Department Ethnographic
Culture
  • Asmat
Geography/Provenience/Site Name
Oceania / Indonesia / Western New Guinea / Irian Jaya / New Guinea
Additional Geographic Terms Otsjanep, Village of
Dimensions Overall: 212 1/4 × 29 1/2 × 58 1/2 in. (17.68 × 2.46 × 4.87 Ft)
Quantity 1
Label on object 65-19-70/4606
Provenance
Collector Michael Clark Rockefeller (1961)
Donor Estate of Michael Clark Rockefeller (1965)

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