Description:

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, East Sepik River region, Yangoru Boiken people, ca. early to mid 20th century CE. A fine ring-form currency piece carved from the shell of a giant clam (Tridacna gigas) that is known as a Wamayuwa. The shell is a creamy white with natural gray inclusions. The central hole was drilled using a piece of bamboo, and then the edges were polished using sand. Rings like this example were sometimes traded as currency, but they were mainly used as bride prices; it was traditionally the groom that paid for the bride with these large rings. A striking example! Size: 7.5" Diameter (19 cm); 9.5" H (24.1 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA Collection

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#141648

  • Condition: Repaired from two pieces with restoration and infill along the break lines. Infill within some cavities. Some surface abrasions and scratches. Beautiful shiny and polished surface!

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February 25, 2021 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
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$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000