Bone Hair Pin
Wosera, Southern Abelam, East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea
19th Century
Previous Collection: Marcia and John Friede collection
This example of a cassowary bone ornament would have been worn in the hair, often serving as a fastener behind a wooden headdress to keep it attached to the back of the head. What is important to notice in this ancient and beautiful hair ornament is the elaborate openwork on the top knob, and the skillfully carved clan symbols and designs that cover the hair pins entire surface. Also of note, at the back of the hair pin a stylized face or mask has been carved in relief.
Bone Hair Pin
Wosera, Southern Abelam,
East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea
19th Century
Previous Collection: Marcia and John Friede collection
This example of a cassowary bone ornament would have been worn in the hair, often serving as a fastener behind a wooden headdress to keep it attached to the back of the head. What is important to notice in this ancient and beautiful hair ornament is the elaborate openwork on the top knob, and the skillfully carved clan symbols and designs that cover the hair pins entire surface. Also of note, at the back of the hair pin a stylized face or mask has been carved in relief.