PNG Women's Ceremonial Paddle - Lake Sentani Region

Lot 16

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Selling antiquities, ancient and ethnographic art online since 1993, Artemis Gallery specializes in Classical Antiquities (Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Near Eastern), Asian, Pre-Columbian, African / Tribal / Oceanographic art. Our extensive inventory includes pottery, stone, metal, wood, glass and textil...Read more

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Indigenous Art - Ralph T. Coe Center, Santa Fe, NM by Artemis Fine Arts

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Indigenous Art - Ralph T. Coe Center, Santa F...

By Artemis Fine Arts

Aug 22, 2025

Set Reminder 2025-08-22 10:00:00 2025-08-22 10:00:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : Indigenous Art - Ralph T. Coe Center, Santa Fe, NM https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/artemis-gallery/indigenous-art---ralph-t-coe-center-santa-fe-nm-20324 Featuring works of art from the Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico, a non-profit focused on promoting Indigenous Arts globally. All proceeds from the sale of these items will support future grants to Rehoming Program participants. Artemis Fine Arts info@artemisfinearts.com

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Lot Description

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, Sentani Region, ca. mid to late 20th century CE. A finely carved wooden paddle from the Lake Sentani region of northern Papua New Guinea, traditionally associated with ceremonial or symbolic use by women of the local communities. The blade features dense, symmetrical incised motifs rendered in shallow relief, including stylized lozenge forms, chevrons, and eye-like elements typical of Sentani visual language. The overall composition is framed within a teardrop-shaped silhouette, tapering to a fine point at the tip. The shaft bears minor linear carving near the grip, subtly echoing the blade's geometry. These paddles, though practical in form, were often used in ritual contexts or as symbols of identity, especially among coastal and lakeside groups where watercraft culture was deeply embedded in daily life and mythology. Size: 61.6" L x 6.8" W (156.5 cm x 17.3 cm)

Lake Sentani art is known for its abstract, curvilinear patterns that connect closely with ancestral spirits and the natural environment, especially fish, birds, and rippling water. While canoe paddles were often utilitarian, this example's detailed carving suggests its role extended beyond transport into the ceremonial or performative, possibly used in women's dances or rites of passage. The surface has aged to a rich, earthy patina, with soft wear indicative of handling and time. A compelling example of Oceanic material culture, it balances functionality with spiritual symbolism.

Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA; gift of John Watson, 2019

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#195955

Condition

Chipping to end of handle, as well some nicks and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and excellent with good remaining detail, rich patina, and scattered earthen deposits.
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