3363-029
Offered for sale is a finely detailed 13.5-inch ancestral bone dagger from the Sepik River region of Papua New Guinea. Known traditionally as an important hand-to-hand weapon and prestigious status symbol, these artifacts were meticulously hand-fashioned from the leg bone of a cassowary bird. The upper handle section is intricately carved with a stylized ancestral face and characteristic geometric clan motifs, imbuing the weapon with the spiritual power and protection of the ancestors. Tapering to a lethal piercing point, this example showcases the rich artistic mastery and ritual sophistication of the Middle Sepik cultures. It represents an exceptional, finely scaled display piece that is an ideal addition for collectors of Oceanic, ethnographic, or tribal art.
The dagger was field-collected by Ron Perry, a globally renowned expert and one of the most respected Pacific tribal art authorities of the 20th century. Beginning his expeditions in 1964, Perry spent over 40 years traveling by canoe up remote waterways and trekking unmapped terrains to collect authentic pieces directly from traditional clans. His credibility in the field is unmatched: following Papua New Guinea's independence in 1975, the PNG National Cultural Council appointed him to manage Village Arts, their government-run indigenous artifact center.
Item Details:
Object: Ancestral Bone Dagger
Culture: Sepik / Washkuk Peoples
Region: Sepik River, Papua New Guinea
Period: Mid to Late 20th Century
Dimensions: 13.5" L (34.3 cm)
Materials: Cassowary bone (tibiotarsus), natural indigenous patination
Provenance: [Insert Provenance Details Here, e.g., Private Collection]
Condition Note: This piece exhibits authentic, stable aging, beautiful native patination, and minor surface wear consistent with age and/or traditional handling. Please review all photographs carefully, as they are an important part of the description.
This is available for local pick-up. Shipping can be available for this item. Please contact us for a custom quote or to make arrangements.
