Ramu River region, Papua New Guinea
Early 20th century
Wood, natural pigments, rattan
Height: 50½ in (128.3 cm); Width: 21 in (53.3 cm)
Provenance: Dr. Bertil Arndahl, Stockholm
Shields from the Ramu River region of Papua New Guinea are among the most visually complex defensive objects produced in the Pacific, their painted surfaces carrying geometric and figurative imagery in natural pigments applied over carved relief. This example relates closely to two other known examples in the same regional style, placing it within a documented and coherent group. The Stockholm provenance suggests acquisition through the network of Scandinavian collectors who engaged seriously with Papua New Guinea material during the mid-twentieth century.
The woven rattan basketry cover and carrying handle remain intact, preserving the full functional assembly of the shield as it was used. Multiple arrow tips remain embedded in the front face, direct physical evidence of the shield's deployment in conflict. The painted surface retains strong color across the upper register, the natural pigments holding their red, ochre, and white tones against the carved ground.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Ramu River region, Papua New Guinea
Early 20th century
Wood, natural pigments, rattan
Height: 50½ in (128.3 cm); Width: 21 in (53.3 cm)
Provenance: Dr. Bertil Arndahl, Stockholm
Shields from the Ramu River region of Papua New Guinea are among the most visually complex defensive objects produced in the Pacific, their painted surfaces carrying geometric and figurative imagery in natural pigments applied over carved relief. This example relates closely to two other known examples in the same regional style, placing it within a documented and coherent group. The Stockholm provenance suggests acquisition through the network of Scandinavian collectors who engaged seriously with Papua New Guinea material during the mid-twentieth century.
The woven rattan basketry cover and carrying handle remain intact, preserving the full functional assembly of the shield as it was used. Multiple arrow tips remain embedded in the front face, direct physical evidence of the shield's deployment in conflict. The painted surface retains strong color across the upper register, the natural pigments holding their red, ochre, and white tones against the carved ground.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
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