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SUPERB SOLOMON ISLANDS FIGURATIVE MORTAR. EARLY 20TH CENTURY.
Originating from the San Cristobal region of the eastern Solomon Islands, offered is a particularly fine figurative mortar. Originating from a New Zealand private collection, the mortar was collected prior to WWII and dates c. 1920-1930. There is a remarkably similar figurative mortar that was collected generations earlier in the 1850's. I have included a photo of that mortar. It is reasonable to assume that both objects were created by the same family or clan who had customary and hereditary rights to the general form and motifs.
The mortar measures 15 1/2 inches (39 cm.) in height. The mortar is in fine condition and is rendered from dense wood. There is one native repair to the side of the mortar where the wall of the mortar was pierced, perhaps with an arrow. The repair was made with paranarium nut paste, which was also used to affix the shell inlays and fibrous hair. The two figures are adorned with waistbands composed of shell money which was a currency of the region. The mouths of the figures are inset with red ochre. The patina exhibits a weathered and worn surface commensurate with the mortar's age.
This is a private auction to safeguard and guarantee bidder / buyer anonymity. Please note that I prefer using FedEx shipping. But I can certainly ship via any service requested. The quoted charge may vary depending on the ultimate destination and requested service. The successful bidder pays only actual shipping charges. No additional packing or handling charges will be assessed. Please contact me with any question.
Also, please review and consider my other current outstanding auctions which include a rare and important Vanuatu wooden mask, a magnificent pair of Asian temple ornaments, a 19th c. Fijian adze, a fine Santa Cruz napa dance club, a rare Pentecost Island magic stone, and a superb Banks Islands figurative pounder.     
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