A MALANGGAN CEREMONIAL FIGURE, NEW IRELAND, PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Carved hardwood, shell, natural and synthetic pigments

This figure was reputedly collected by a passenger aboard the first Australian boat to visit New Ireland following the defeat of Germany during the First World War
Private collection

It appears that areas of the carving have broken away including the ear lobe extensions and the area between the hands and the chin. The surface has a number of areas of damage and much pigment loss. There are some considerable cracks to the left hand side of the torso and to the upper right shoulder which looks to have been reattached with glue at some point. There is a further crack that runs from the figures base up through the right leg into the figure that has been glued and restored at some point. There are a few small holes from insects
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."