Auction 104
Zemanek-Münster

Chest ornament

Papua New Guinea, North Coast, Aitape Region, Wawapu
sold EUR 1,000
Provenance
Curt Eduard Pilz (1879-1927), Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Size
H: 25,5 cm
H: 10.0 inch

Description

rattan, boar tusts, nassa snails, fiber material,

This compact breast ornament was surely part of a festive costume for men, but was even worn in military action. It had an amulet-like effect, but could as well provide defense against the enemies arrows.


Comparing literature

Heermann, Ingrid & Ulrich Menter, Schmuck der Südsee, München 1990, p. 60, ill. 6

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