Here’s a one of a kind treasure from the south pacific coming from our private oceanic collection.

This is a Solomon Islands Santa Cruz hand carved Ceremonial Figure called a Duka, circa 1930s. It is carved in an extremely hard wood and features an unusual extended conical head, a hand woven loin cloth and fine turmeric ritual encrustation. It comes mounted on a fine custom wood display base.

Dimensions: 21.25 inches high

Provenance: collected in l938 in the Solomon Islands by a French collector

and to Scott Duggleby

History:
Duka sculpture from Nendo Island, politically part of the Solomon Islands, is distinctive, and only a limited number of works have been documented. The conical extension at the back of the head represents a man’s hairstyle. Called abe, its construction and shape was a symbol of wealth and high social status, and for older men, it also served the practical purpose of covering bald spots. All Nendo figure refer to deities or supernatural beings (Ellis: 2009, pp. 78-85)

Auction sale: Bonhams Auctions April 28, 2015 sale. Exceptional Lime Container, Nendo Island, Solomon Islands duka gourd, wood, fiber, shell, turmeric, black pigments height 12 3/4in (33.4cm), ex Scott Duggleby, realized $21,250 with buyers premium.