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Rockefeller Irivake Figure

About the Item

Abstract and anthropomorphic large figure from the Pie River, located to the east of the Era River. Abstract, anthropomorphic form stands on separate legs with dynamic varying outline, wide hips, and torso leading straight to a rounded head. Figure represents Irivake, the ancestor hero who is considered as the founder of headhunting, also believed to have climbed to the sky and to command lightning. It is enlivened with various curvilinear details highlighted with red and white pigments. The back appears with a collection number in red, and the following: Ipigau (village), Upper Pie River, Papua, P63.20. This is a 'later example', not a first generation piece with several age cracks. It has likely seen field use, but not extensive field use. Provenance: Private New Jersey Collection, ex. Michael Rockefeller collection, ex. Metropolitan Museum of Art, NYC. Sothebys, Nov. 4, 1980, Lot 33. Exhibited in Katonah, NY, Katonah Gallery, Oceania: The Art of Polynesia, Micronesia, Melanesia, April 5 – May 26, 1974. Published in Douglas Newton, New Guinea Art in the Collection of the Museum of Primitive Art, New York, 1967, pl. 103.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 70 in (177.8 cm)Width: 21 in (53.34 cm)Depth: 1.5 in (3.81 cm)
  • Style:
    Primitive (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1935-1955
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    San Pedro Garza Garcia, MX
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: OC-0161stDibs: LU317239171741

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