Bone Dagger

Iatmul, Papua New Guinea
19th Century


Field collected during the La Korrigane Voyage during the 1930’s INV #’s D39.3.973

This is a wonderfully detailed and abstract example of the daggers made from cassowary bone, used during war runs in the late 19th and early 20thcentury. Deeply carved with an expressive classic face that is surrounded by circular patterns. The color of the bone has darkened from generations of handling as well as the surface has become worn and smooth to the touch from extensive use.

This dagger stands 13 inches tall.

SOLD / IN 8-9-10