Papua New Guinea Bailer Shell Pectoral Boiken Ceremonial Wealth Status Bailer Shell

This is a very Unique Bailer Shell Pectoral with a Carved Lizard on the Inside with a Shell Hook Dangling on the end from the Boiken People of the East Sepik Province of Papua New Guinea. The bailer shell is the most important pectoral in this region, worn mainly by men, but sometimes women of high status. They follow trade routes that bring these shells from the coast to coast, and they become both important in ceremony but also as items of wealth. The exchange and symbolic use of shell valuables as body ornaments and wealth forms were widespread. Either whole shells or cut shells were worn on the human body, and shell valuables were used as a monetary form of money. Shells were often borrowed and lent when needed for ceremonial occasions and given sacred meaning through their association with ancestral cults. This Bailer shell ornament has a an anthropomorphic lizard form resembling those seen on a shield placed in side with string holding it in place that is fastened in the back. This would be a lovely addition to your collection or home.

Late-20th Century

COMES ON A STAND

Shows age, but is in good condition. Museum Quality

Bailer Shell on Stand

9 3/4" tall

Shell

6" tall

4" wide

1" deep

Lizard

4" long

1" wide

Shell Tail

3" long

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