Massim Pig Figures from Trobriand Islands, PNG

Fine pair of Massim pig figures, Trobriand Islands, Papua New Guinea. Pig sculptures have been made on Kiriwina Island to sell Western visitors as early as 1880. The use of pre-contact pig figures is uncertain; its function as an item of value used for example in exchange for a real pig. Carved and engraved hardwood and natural pigments. Provenance: Estate of Margret Malval, USA. Private Collection, New South Wales. Approx. lengths 9.45 in., 11.61 in.