Bidspirit auction | Large Hand-Carved Dark Hardwood Primitive

Large Hand-Carved Dark Hardwood Primitive Warrior Chief Figure in the Oceanic Style - This is a large, hand-carved wooden figure of a male warrior chief, crafted in an ethnographic or Oceanic style. The entire surface exhibits prominent, faceted tool marks from a chisel or adze, creating a textured appearance. The stylized head features large protruding circular eyes, prominent ears, and a wide, grimacing mouth. The crown is adorned with a bundle of dark, coarse natural fiber hair tied with string. A fringed skirt made from woven burlap and raffia-type natural fibers is tied around the waist. The figure is depicted in a standing posture with slightly flexed knees and arms held forward. The hands are formed into fists; the right hand has a bored hole through the centre, indicating it may have previously held an accessory such as a spear or staff. The large, blocky feet feature notched toes. This piece resembles traditional ancestral or cult figures from regions such as Papua New Guinea or Fiji, often produced for the decorative arts market in the mid-to-late 20th century. Height: 103 cm.