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Mendi Shield
An Artist’s Collection VOL.1
Highlands, Papua New Guinea
Early 20th century, pre contact
Early 20th century, pre contact
Wood, paint, plant fibre
53″ x 17”
ex Chris Boylan Gallery
Additional photos available upon request
“The oval hardwood shield (wörrumbi) was carried by bowmen slung by a strap from he shoulder of the bow arm . It was used for formal clan battles. There were two small holes at the top centre to enable a bunch of leaves or feathers to be tied on. The availability of steel tools provided the opportunity for innovation: a central vertical “spine” was carved at the front.” -Evans, War Art & Ritual : Shields from the Pacific vol. 2 , P.295