Ancient Stone Sculpture from Papua New Guinea Makes World Debut at Parcours des Mondes in Paris
A rare stone sculpture known as the Laiagam Stone, originating from the Papua New Guinea Highlands in the 1960s, will be unveiled for the first time at the Parcours des Mondes tribal art fair in Paris by Australian Oceanic art dealer Chris Boylan. The sculpture, measuring approximately 20cm in height, is expected to captivate attendees at the fair.
Boylan, who hails from Chris Boylan Oceanic Art in Sydney, is excited to showcase the Laiagam Stone, although its true value remains unknown. Interestingly, a similar stone known as the Ambum Stone, housed in the National Gallery of Australia, is estimated to be worth A$6 million (US$4 million).
The Ambum Stone, also originating from the Highlands and acquired in 1977, boasts a unique history. Despite being damaged while on loan overseas, the stone revealed ancient vegetation within its cracks, dating back 3,500 years. The stone was expertly restored and returned to public display.
Boylan believes that the Laiagam Stone, like the Ambum Stone, is around 3,500 years old and holds significant cultural and historical value. Collected by Australian engineer Ron Ingle in the 1960s, the Laiagam Stone has a mysterious past, with little known about its ritual significance.
Ingle likely prevented the Laiagam Stone from being destroyed or repurposed, as many similar artifacts faced a grim fate during the influence of Christian missionaries in Papua New Guinea. While the stone’s exact ceremonial purpose remains a mystery, Boylan speculates it may have been used in sacred rituals and ceremonies.
Despite several ritual stones being uncovered in the Highlands, only a few remain as intact, stunning works of art. Alongside the Ambum Stone and a privately owned stone in the US, the Laiagam Stone stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Papua New Guinea.
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Cillian O’Rourke, studied at the National College of Art and Design in Dublin, Ireland, where he majored in Visual Communication. His work spans graphic design, illustration, and branding, with a distinct minimalist style that emphasizes simplicity and impact. Cillian has collaborated with international brands and runs his own design studio focusing on creative solutions for startups.