Northwest Coast Polychromed Wood Figure, probably Nootka

in a seated position, hands clasped around the knees, the stylized head with open mouth, narrow eyes and nose, plaited coiffure, and painted decoration. 

Sotheby's New York, March 1972, lot 26

Acquired by present owner from Ron Nasser, New York, NY

Pinacotheque de Paris, Paris, "Pollack and Shamanism," 2008-2009

Stephen Polcari, 2008, Pollack and Shamanism

Very good original condition with typical wear including minor abrasions.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For a mask identified as Nootka and which relates to the face on this sculpture see Bancroft-Hunt and Forman, 1979, p. 15: "Much of its visual strength is due to the bold, simple, geometric decoration and the restricted modelling of the features which, in profile, form one line through the forehead and nose and then recede abruptly to a small mouth and chin - characteristics of Nootkan carving." Also see Sotheby's New York, May 1999, lot 407, for a related example of large-scale totemic figural carving.