Shell currency ring "wamayuwa"
Click here to view a larger version of the image
Lot: 19
88th Tribal Art AuctionShell currency ring "wamayuwa"
Papua New Guinea, East Sepik - Yangoru Boiken
| Provenance | Size | Starting price / estimated price |
|---|---|---|
|
H: 9.1 inch; B: 7.9 inch |
This object is not available anymore. |
giant clam, polished, yellowish patina, central opening: 8,3 cm in diameter, thickness: 3,8 cm.
Cut with bamboo saws from giant clam shells that are traded in from the coast. Such shell rings are used for currency for all major transactions: bride price, compensation, land payments.
Hamson, Michael, Art of the Boiken, Palos Verdes 2011, p. 226 ff.
