Vintage Collection of Oceanic Shields (Tall), Papua New Guinea- Set of 3

Description

A collection of 3 Papua New Guinea wooden war shields on custom stands from the mid 20th century. These oceanic … more A collection of 3 Papua New Guinea wooden war shields on custom stands from the mid 20th century. These oceanic war shields were not only created for protecting oneself for tribal warfare, but also for ancestral and ritual worship. They are adorned in various motifs, coloring and symbolism, intended to protect the carrier from magic and bring fear to the opponent. The smaller is a shoulder shield from Scrader Mountains within the Madang Province. The two other taller shields originate from the Melpa tribe of the Western Highlands (Mount Hagen and Wahgi Valley), an area which was not discovered by the outside world until three Australian gold prospectors entered the region during their explorations in 1934. Each of these shields is displayed upright on a custom black iron stand, with the tallest of the set standing at a height of over 5.5 feet tall. This collection of Papua New Guinea shields from the mid 20th century would make for an exceptional and thought-provoking artistic display, perhaps within a living room or study. less