MIDDLE SEPIK CONE SHELL WEALTH BELT

Origin:  New Guinea, East Sepik Province    

Period/Date: Early to mid 20th century but the shells are much older

Materials:  natural fiber (bush string), rattan

Description:  This impressive "wealth belt" is comprised of 130 graduated cone shell disks skillfully attached to the woven fiber structure.  The shell disks are very labor intensive to make since they began as a "full size" cone shells.  Only the tops are used requiring them to be cut, polished and removed.  The belt would have been an important object communicating the of high status and wealth of its owner.  It could be exchanged as bride price, to buy pigs or payment for a wrongful death.  It is in very good condition with few it any broken fiber strands.

Dimensions:   Overall Length 30"  (76 cm), Width at widest point 2.25"  (5.5 cm)

Price:  $1800      Currency Conversion    FREE SHIPPING With (Buy Now) Feature!