the finely carved figure as finial to a tall marker, with prominent oval head showing lively features, ears projecting at the side, wearing an incised beaded collar across the chest, raised belt and bracelets, the face covered overall with resinous red pigment, and cutaway portion on the chest with removable insert.

Grace Line Collection
Robert Sonin Collection, acquired from the above in the 1960's

Overall very good, old stresses and wear on the head as shown, but all are stable. Some old and worn losses on the back of the head, but good definition of the figure on reverse in terms of the loincloth and hands. Color very good. The cutaway rectangle on the front probably part of an old attempt at repair to a flaw or chip on that part of the torso.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Carved in dense wood in a stiff protective stance, figural markers were likely covered in textile clothing, some with additions of inlay design, and enhanced with pigment as seen on this figure. The Grace Line collection was formed by W.R. Grace & Co. in the 1950's and '60's during their plantation and shipping business. Many of their artworks decorated the steamships traveling the West Coast of South America.  For other figures from the Grace Line collection, see Bird, Art and Life in Old Peru, 1962, Fig. 54, an exhibition at the American Museum of Natural History. For a similar figure from the Barbier-Mueller collection, see Sotheby's, Paris, March 22/23, 2013, lot 133.