• Australian Aboriginal People

• Mid 20th Century

• Bean Wood and Pigment

• Dimensions: 26 × 8 in/66 × 20 cm

The front of this traditional elongated ovoid form is ornamented with a grooved linear design set vertically, as is the reverse, with the addition of a handle deeply carved into the shield body.

 Broad patterns formed from straight grooved motifs, such as those that appear on the Wunda Shields, are commonly interpreted as representing ripple marks on sand, or the ripples made by wind on the surface of water. With vast swaths of Australia covered in desert, this design is a representation of what was visually familiar and perhaps a silent prayer for water.

Shipping quoted separately.

Inquire | Sign up to receive our emails

• Melpa, Western Highlands, Papua New Guinea

• Mid 20th century or earlier

• Wood, paint, wire

• 67 x 24 in. / 170 x 61 cm

Domestic shipping included. International shipping quoted separately.

Inquire | Sign up to receive our emails

• Kalam Culture, Madang Province, Papua New Guinea

• Wood, rope, repair

• Late 19th/Early 20th Century

• 21 x 35 in. / 53 x 89 cm

• Field collected by Bruce Lawes

Pre contact, stone carved shield. Some restoration.

Shipping quoted separately.

Inquire | Sign up to get our emails