The Kina Shell Moka Breastplate is a type of body decoration that is worn primarily by men of the different highlands regions of Papua New Guinea. The breastplate may be worn on the neck, the chest, or in some regions, on the back. The breastplate consists of a kina shell -- a large piece of pearl oyster shell -- that is set into a backing composed of different substances such … [Read more...] about Kina Shell Moka Breastplate: Researched and Conserved by Naysa Adams
This Suspension Hook was created by an artist of the Iatmul culture of the Sepik River region in Papa New Guinea. Suspension hooks are used by many different cultures of the Sepik River region, primarily to keep baskets of food suspended above the ground and away from moisture, insects, and rodents. In addition, the hooks may also be used to suspend anything that needs to be … [Read more...] about Iatmul Suspension Hook: Researched and Conserved by David Wright
BEFORE CONSERVATION AFTER CONSERVATION The art of the Sepik River region of Papua New Guinea revolves heavily around men’s societies and their associated ceremonies and initiations. Sepik River religions involve ancestor worship, and many of the masks produced in this region represent either mythological or ancestral spirits, which are believed to provide aid in warfare … [Read more...] about Turtle Shell Basketry Mask: Researched and Conserved by Marissa Ewing