War Shield
Massim Peoples, Trobriand Islands, Papua New Guinea
Wood, and natural pigments
19th or early 20th century
20 1/2” (52cm) Tall by 10” (25.5cm) Wide and 1” (2.5cm) Thick
A small but rare 19th century Trobriand Island Massim war shield. This wood shield has natural pigment painting on the front in black and some reds remaining, but most of the white pigment has been lost over time. The original handle is mostly intact with one front binding missing. There are a variety of small piercing in the front possibly form a spear or arrows tips. There is a good overall patina from age and use. Mounted on a custom wood base.
$6500
