19TH C. STONE-CARVED PAPUAN GULF BAMBOO TOBACCO PIPE W/ ANCESTOR FACES
Origin:
Period/Date: Last quarter of the 19th century
Materials: Bamboo, ocher pigment
Description: This very early stone-carved bamboo smoking pipe "wadulu" is presented on a custom bronze display base. It features numerous bold ancestor faces combined with birds and clan symbols. The piece has good scale and volume and looks impressive in person. To consider that this pipe was used and enjoyed in the men's house over 120 years ago is an amazing thought. Bamboo although very strong can be easily "crushed" so it is astonishing it has survived. A shell, animal claw or other suitable material resist to heat was inserted into the small opening and served as the tobacco combustion bowl. There is some writing on the pipe in old ink, likely inscribed by Dr. Blayney apparently corresponding to where it was collected "muru gulf bng" (bng: British New Guinea?). Isolated faces and eyes suggest that the artist may have intended to carve the entire surface of the bamboo but as it is about 60 percent of the surface has incised decoration. The pipe is in good condition with no loss. It has several linear age cracks, most are hairlines, but integrity is fine. A graphic and historic piece sure to be a welcome addition in any collection.
Dimensions: Height: 31.25" (79.5 cm), Width 3" (7.5 cm)
Price: $4500 Currency Conversion FREE SHIPPING When Using "Buy Now" Feature
Discounted Price: $2700
Dr. Joseph Albert Blayney
Note: This shoulder shield shown below was also collected by Dr. Blayney and sold for $25,750
