Description:

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, possibly Maprik / Wosera area, Abelam and Arapesh peoples, ca. early 20th century CE. Carved from the thigh bone of a huge cassowary bird ("moruk" in Tok Pisin). This example is incised with a series of curvilinear decorations surrounding a large oval in the center. Daggers like this one were traditionally worn on the upper arm, secured via a woven band, and occasionally around the neck. As a tool, bone daggers would have been used for hunting, combat, ceremonial sacrifices, digging, and/or dancing (singsing) decorations. This example still has its tip; those that have lost their tips are oftentimes used as lime spatulas or sewing tools. Size: 2" W x 13.6" H (5.1 cm x 34.5 cm); 14.7" H (37.3 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: Estate of R. Pearson, Denver, Colorado, USA; Mr. Pearson collected from the third quarter of the 20th century until he passed away.

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#143176

  • Condition: Normal surface wear and darkening in areas commensurate with age and ossification. Old nicks to joint end and body, and light softening to some incised details. Light earthen deposits in some recessed areas.

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November 12, 2020 10:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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