Breast ornment "gam" · Papua New Guinea - Highlands, Mendi · ID: 3033558
sold
EUR 400
Size
H: 26,5 cm, resp. 26 cm
H: 10.4 inch, resp. 10.2 inch
Description
two pieces, Melomelo/Cymbium oder Bailer shell, each dyed with red pigment, with dotted zigzag pattern on the upper rim, three drilled holes with knotted plant fibre cord for attachment;
the “gam” is only worn by Big Men. It is the central ornament of their great ceremonial dress. The common name of the Melomelo shell was derived from early settlers who noticed the shell being used by Aboriginals for “bailing out” their dugouts.