Post from the men's house with the two summit birds facing e - Lot 2

Post from the men's house with the two summit birds facing each other Pigment-coated wood, marks of time Abelam, Maprik, Papua New Guinea, first half 20th century H_180 cm W_22 cm This ornamental post is part of the ritual architecture of the Abelam men's houses (kurabu), where the sculpture is part of a visual presentation linked to initiations. The vertical composition combines two superimposed male figures, structuring the central axis in an ascending dynamic. At the base, an expressive mask anchors the whole, while at the top two confronting birds - probably stylized hornbills - introduce formal tension. The natural pigments still visible reinforce the visual impact of the sculpture, designed to be perceived head-on and act within a ceremonial framework. Expert : Serge REYNES