Motu Shield, Papua New Guinea

Shield, Motu people, central Province, Papua New Guinea, 19th century, this type of shield was used along the coast between cape Possession & Hall sound and inland from these coastal areas. These shields are highly sought after by collectors because of the refined figure eight shape and fine woven binding and incised lime filled decoration. Provenance: BL Hornshaw collection (1878-1937). Hornshaw was an avid collector of Pacific and Australian Aboriginal artefacts, he received many of his pieces from people who lived and worked in the Pacific in the late 19th century / Todd Barlin collection. 99 x 44 cm