Papua New Guinea Bracelet Kula Mwali Shell Tobriand Islands Currency Shell Bracelet

This is an exquisite Mwali or Kula Shell Exchange Bracelet from the Tobriand Islands, Papua new Guinea. This bracelet was made for a child and is made of narrow polished strips of shell tied with string, and each joint is decorated with red and yellow glass trade beads. A beautiful large decoration is at the center of each bracelet is made of cowrie shells, nuts, red beads and red discs. The discs are cut from a plastic bucket, because the red is more intense that that of the old pinkish red mussel shells that were used. These shell Mwali or Kula bracelets or armbands; seldom worn, were usually suspended from a braided rope. Mwali would be better described as currency, used for bride price & wealth exchanges. Originally they were circulated in pairs until the early 1900’s. This is a beautiful and unique shell bracelet, old and rare and would be a lovely addition to your collection or home.

Late 20th-Century

COMES ON STAND

Shows age and Natural Wear. Very Collectible, Old and Rare

3 x 3 Armbands
.5 Inch Thick Bands
7.5 Inches Tall with shells Hanging Front
8.5 Inches Tall on Stand


AT BACARA WE STAND BEHIND ALL OF OUR MERCHANDISE. FULL MONEY BACK GUARANTEE WILL BE PROVIDED FOR DISSATISFIED CUSTOMERS. YOUR SATISFACTION IS OUR MAIN GOAL, AND WE THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AT BACARA.May2020#22

WE OFFER LAYAWAY OPTIONS PLEASE CONTACT US