Old 20th Century Nepalese Shamanic Ancestor Wooden Sculpture
A striking example of Nepalese tribal sculpture, this old carved wooden ancestor figure has the raw, primitive character that collectors look for in genuine ethnographic art. The elongated proportions, oversized head, restrained facial features, dark aged surface, and simple geometric carving give the figure a powerful presence despite its relatively compact size.
The sculpture is particularly appealing for its heavily aged appearance and unmistakably handmade character. The dark surface has developed an irregular patina through age and handling, while areas of exposed wood reveal the natural wear and history of the piece. The carved wave-like patterning around the lower garment adds an understated but distinctive detail. A strong addition to a collection of Himalayan, Nepalese, tribal, or shamanic art.
• Origin: Nepal
• Period: 20th Century, exact date unknown
• Type: Shamanic ancestor figure / tribal sculpture
• Dimensions: 31 × 7 × 8 cm = 12 × 2.75 × 3 inches
• Craftsmanship: Entirely hand-carved with a deliberately simplified anthropomorphic form, individually shaped facial features, elongated proportions, and incised decorative patterns
• Facial Detail: Stylized incised eyes, nose, and mouth with an expressive, primitive appearance
• Surface & Patina: Deep dark aged finish with extensive natural variation, worn areas, exposed original wood, abrasions, and accumulated surface character
• Condition: Antique condition with substantial age-related wear, including surface losses, chips, abrasions, cracks, and areas where the original dark finish has worn away. Please study all photographs carefully for the complete condition
• Base: Mounted on a simple square display base that allows the figure to stand securely
• Uniqueness: The irregular hand carving, asymmetrical wear, natural deterioration, and aged surface make this a one-of-a-kind tribal sculpture with no two areas exactly alike
• Collector Appeal: Particularly suited to collectors of Nepalese and Himalayan art, tribal sculpture, shamanic objects, primitive art, ethnographic collections, and antique wooden figures