Etrier d'échasse, Îles Marquises, Polynésie

Collection Ernst von Sieglin (1848-1927), Stuttgart
Linden Museum, Stuttgart, inv. n°49665
Anthony JP Meyer, Paris
Collection privée

Good condition overall. Wear consistent with age and use within the culture. Greater erosion inside the sculpture and to the step wearing away the carving in places. Some old chips and losses. Inventory numbers are clearly visible on the rear of the object.
"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."

Ernst von Sieglin a cinquante ans lorsqu'il entreprend, en 1898, son premier voyage en Egypte et se convertit à l'archéologie et à la collection. Passionné d'art égyptien et grec, sa collection s'ouvre également à quelques artefacts polynésiens (cf. Metropolitan Museum of art, inv. n°1985.317.8 - 9), parmi lesquels cet imposant étrier d'échasse (ces dernières utilisées lors de cérémonies funéraires) finement ouvragé à l'outil de pierre, à profonde patine d'usage, qui porte au dos, inscrit à l'encre noire, la mention "49665, markesas I., E. Sieglin" et à l'encre blanche le numéro '2596".