Lot 147 D α

HIGHLANDS PREHISTORIC STONE MORTAR

Auction 1167 - overview Brussels
02.09.2021, 14:00 - Art of Africa, The Pacific and The Americas
Estimate: 2.000 € - 3.000 €

HIGHLANDS PREHISTORIC STONE MORTAR
Papua New Guinea

25.5 cm. wide

Prehistoric mortars and pestles have been discovered by present-day native populations when exposed by river bank erosion, during construction of new roads and the clearing of new gardens. They are believed by their finders to possess powerful magic properties and have been incorporated into their ritual life, sometimes being painted with vivid designs.

Provenance

Stan Moriarty, Sydney