Rare archers shield "saemowgwaenk" · Papua New Guinea - Southern Highlands, Mendi Valley, Wiru · ID: 3043409
not available anymore
Provenance
Todd Barlin, Sydney, Australia (1980s)Size
H: 72,5 cm
H: 28.5 inch
Description
hardwood, blackish brown patina, red and white pigment, two pairs of drilled holes, plant fibre strap for suspension, slightly dam.
This type of shield is much rarer than the larger oval shaped shields from the same area. Its also rare to have the stylized human figure on the front, which is wearing a kina shell currency necklace. The shield has a U-shaped notch at the top and was hung from the bowman’s shoulder. It was worn to protect the torso during battle while leaving both hands free for using the bow.
Comparing literature
Beran, Harry & Barry Craig (ed.), Shields of Melanesia, Honolulu 2005, p. 135, ill. 5.19