TAMI ISLANDS, Papua New Guinea. Hardwood, traces of lime. The Tami Islands are located off the eastern tip of the Huon Peninsula and are the most influential production centre in the region. This stylised human figure probably represents a powerful spirit, a supernatural creature or an ancestor. The iconography of this work reflects the most demanding elements of the "Tami style": a complex interplay of curvilinear and angular forms, a round skullcap on top of the head, and almond-shaped eyes framed by triangular motifs. This work is distinguished by the inverted movement of the legs, a very rare feature. Second half of the 19th century (according to certificate of authenticity by M. S. Schoffel). Height: 29.5 cm. Provenance: Collection of a couple of collectors, Blois. Acquired in Brussels on 18 March 2005 from the Galerie Serge Schoffel (certificate of authenticity attached, dating the object to the second half of the 19th century). Note: To be compared with the Iles Tami statue from the Monique and Jean-Paul BARBIER-MUELLER collection, Christie's Art as Legacy sale on 6 March 2024. (Arkhade : QCC-183421).