Oceanic Art - Image Enlargement

May_08_408

 

 

 

May_08_408

 

 

 

May_08_408

This is a wonderful example of a Simbai shield. These shields come from the Kalam speaking people who live at the headwaters of the Simbai River—hence the name. The shield has parallel rows of raised square nubs that divide the design in quadrants. And unlike most shields from the area this example has excellent remains of white and pink pigments that expand on the carved design. The shield has a nice aged reverse, dates to the 1920/30s, is 39" in height and sells for $6500. Questions?