Bidspirit auction | Papua New Guinea Carved Polychrome

Papua New Guinea Carved Polychrome Headrest - Papua New Guinea headrest carved from wood with polychrome accents. The piece features a traditional dark aged patina with red-ochre and white pigment highlights throughout the carved surfaces. The construction consists of a rectangular, slightly concave seat supported by two flared legs. Both long sides are decorated with deep relief carvings depicting a central stylized face within a heart-shaped border, characterized by large circular eyes and a horizontal slit mouth, flanked by symmetrical scrolling and foliate motifs. 4” H x 13 1/2” W x 5 1/2” D. From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940–2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.