2003.31 Seated male ancestor figure

The sensitive carving of this figure’s eyes, mouth, and aristocratic gold ear ornaments contrasts with the dramatic abstraction of the body. The seated pose encompasses three different compositions. Viewed from the front, the composition is a hollow cube, framed by folded and gently rounded legs. In profile, the composition is a dynamic combination of angles and fluid curves articulating an improbably thin torso. Viewed from the back, the composition is a bold vertical slab.

This sculpture represents the founding ancestor of a community. The Leti believed that a deceased person’s shadow image, likened to a soul or spirit, could take up residence in carved wooden figures, thus allowing their descendants to communicate with him or her. Female ancestors were consulted regarding fertility, whereas male ancestors were called upon for status issues.

Roslyn A. Walker, Label text, 2013.

Until 1995: Leendert Van Lier, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

1997-2003: Yellin collection, Santa Monica, California, purchased at auction, "African, Oceanic & Indonesian Art from Van Lier Collection," Christie's, Amsterdam, April 15, 1997

2003: Dallas Museum of Art, purchased through Pacific American Corp. (Steven G. Alpert), Dallas, Texas

Notes:

The main source for this provenance is the Acquisition Proposal in the Collections Records object file (2003.31).

Apply to objects where number equals 2003.31