Shell Wealth Object, Lumi Area West Sepik Province Papua New Guinea
Collection No. | A-1596 |
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Size | 35cm x 36cm |
This beautifully Woven & Nassa Shell Decorated Wealth object is from the Lumi Area of the West Sepik Province Papua New Guinea. Though primarily a traditional wealth object it could also be worn as a ceremonial ornament during singing and dancing. Woven from a type of cane & then given designs with alternating yellow & black orchid stem fibre stripes then the whole edge is decorated with tiny Nassa shells. These objects were kept as family heirlooms and were also used a traditional wealth to pay a dowry from the young mans family for his bride.
Dating from the 1940’s and in good original condition.