Shield, Asmat, West Papua, Papua New Guinea Height: 128 cm Wood and pigments. The deep patina of age and the archaic style of its carving lend this shield a remarkably ancient character. The powerful forms, vigorous modeling, and absence of superfluous ornamentation result in a work whose expressiveness stems above all from the strength of its carving. This fine example illustrates the qualities of early Asmat works, which are now particularly sought after for their authenticity and remarkable sculptural presence. Provenance: John Giltsoff, Brussels.