Galerie Meyer Oceanic Art Yipwon - Esprit de la guerre ou de la chasse

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Description

A large and archaic yipwon, or hook-figure. The yipwon represent great spirits that are specifically related to hunting and warfare. The large yipwon are main entities in the local pantheon gravitating around the central figure, or yimar ? A naturalistic anthropomorphic sculpture. These yipwon are usually stored at the rear of the Mens House on a raised platform or altar. The remarkable anthropomorphic form of the yipwon, which is created to be seen more in profile then from head-on is the result of a systematic stylization and reduction process. It shows the ancestor with a large head bent slightly forward imparting a tension and menace that is remarkably powerful and awe inspiring. The body is emaciated until only the back-bone and rib-cage remains surrounding on a vertical plane the central ?heart?. The figure balances on a single flexed leg as if ready to spring forward into action. Prior to hunting or warring expeditions the yipwon were "heated", or given life, with magical incantations and painted. Blood and secret concoctions were splashed on the figure as well. Returning after a successful headhunting expedition or battle, the victorious warriors would attach bits of the enemy's body to the hooks and sometimes the whole figure would be painted with the blood of the victims. In some cases it is reported that the heads of the enemy would be stuck onto the figures hooks as well. The hooks represent the beak of the great hornbill, a bird related to the world of the deceased and the spirits. The down cast eyes were originally inlayed with circular shell pieces. The present massive yipwon is of superb quality and - while eroded - the power and threatening menace are totally present and extraordinarily active. The stigmata of natural decay contribute to a rare and highly esthetic spirituality - the end result of an accidental collaboration between the Artist, Time and Mother Nature. Yimar People, Upper Korowori River, Middle Sepik River, New Guinea, Melanesia. Wood with a patina of age and immersion. The surface retains traces of lichen and an acquatic fungus. 162 x 40 x 12 cm. 17th/19th century (carbon 14). Reported to have been collected from an abandoned village on the Blackwater River, in 1961 (whether by Philip Goldman or George Kennedy is presently being researched). Originally purchased from Patricia A. Withofs (1934-1998), circa 1960/70. Christie's, New York, Tribal art, November 11, 1993, lot 219. See similar examples published in

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• Country : FRANCE