This rare piece is a form of currency from the Kabwum Valley area of Morobe Province. Locally these are called "poli" and were a form of wealth. They are composed of nassa shells sewn onto a fiber back — sometimes coconut fiber, sometimes burlap — this example looks to be both. The design is two classic splayed "hocker" figures with nice remains of red and green pigments. This is an usually large example at 20 ½" in height. There has been a recent article written on these in German and for those German speakers I can include a copy. This piece dates to the early/mid 20th century and sells for $1500. Questions?