MASSIVE MAY RIVER FIGHTING SHIELD

Origin:  New Guinea, East Sepik Province, Western Sepik, May River, Iwam people    (Provenance: Ex. Raymond Handley collection, San Francisco (pervious owner of Folk Art International, once located in the Frank Lloyd Wright building at 140 Maiden Lane)

Period/Date:  late 50's early 1960s

Materials:  Fire-Hardened wood, rattan, natural earth pigments

Description:  Very tall shields graphic like this were not used for attacking, but were used defensively to protect a line of men behind it.  Shorter lighter versions of this shield were used for attacking.  When turned horizontally it could have protected 4 or more men if necessary.  May River shields are characterized by their height, abstract designs and the central vertical ridge.  This example has traditional complex design motifs punctuated with stylized faces and multiple eyes.  More specifically the designs represent clan totems of plants and animals, for example, the repeated chevrons in the center band represent Hornbill birds.  It is in good condition expect for some minor dents and scraps.  Its handle is complete and intact as well.

Dimensions:   Height 89 5/8"  (228 cm), Width 22 1/4"  (56.5 cm)

Price: $4500  (add $300 for domestic ground shipping)   Email for overseas shipping quote