Shell Wealth Object, Lumi Area West Sepik Province Papua New Guinea

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.