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.
Mid-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
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. #12