This carver's mallet was collected by Phillip Goldman in the 1960's and was purchased by me from Christie's sale of his collection June 22, 1993 Lot 172 p 51. ( see pictures ). The Karawari river in Papua New Guinea is a tributary of the Sepik, the major river of the region. This piece was being used when collected and dates to the mid-20th century. The wonderfully expressive face and the patina show this was a personal item and not carved for the trade. Most likely Yimar people. ...click for details
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