Lot 181

Tiwi Ancestral Figure

Estimate: $200 - $400

Price Realized: $192 Includes buyer's premium

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Lot 181
Tiwi Ancestral Figure
Description
A Tiwi ancestral figure, possibly representing the ancestor Bima or the Tokampini (Spirit Bird), is hand-carved from a single block of ironwood and features a stylized body with a heart-shaped face, circular eyes, and breasts, all set upon a cylindrical plinth base. The entire surface is hand-painted in natural earth pigments with traditional jilamara patterns, including dense white and yellow dots on a dark ground, accented by bold vertical and horizontal bands in black and red ochre.
Details
Ironwood, natural earth pigments (ochres
17 1/2 x 6 1/4 x 6 inches
Provenance
The Eugene and Dorothy Prakapas Estate, proceeds to benefit a scholarship fund at Yale University
Condition
The sculpture is in overall good condition, exhibiting a stable surface with a rich natural patina and minor scattered abrasions consistent with its construction from dense ironwood


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Contact Information
Becky Sue Expert Specialist Photo +1 (234) 567-890

Other works from Antiques, Design & Decor May 28, 2026 (sale completed)