Sculpted human figure holding human head. Features emphasised with light brown pigment.
Yes, pretty certain that this is of Asmat manufacture. It is likely to be mangrove wood. Figures like this are to be found throughout Asmat. The fact that it does not have a stand beneath the feet suggests that it was not necessarily made for trade and it may have been one of a group of such figures that are to be found round the hearth in the jeu or in individual houses. It’s not very fully decorated. Many such figures also have white lime designs as well or are given a white wash overall. The design suggests that it could come from the Safan district and perhaps from Ocenep or Piriem See Konrad, Sowada and Konrad 2002 Asmat perception of art in life figure 99, p160 for a similar image
