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Offered for sale is an impressive 42.5-inch warrior arrow deflector shield from the Upper Sepik River region of Papua New Guinea. Known traditionally as a defensive shield, these long, narrow rectangular carvings were created by the Kupkein people to parry or deflect physical threats like arrows and spears during tribal combat. This large, powerful example is hand-carved from a single piece of indigenous hardwood and features highly stylized ancestor spirit motifs (Raram) designed to confront and intimidate enemies, utilizing clan spirit power to protect the warrior. The face is adorned with relief-carved concentric loops that symbolize ancestral eyes, accented by a striking saw-tooth border and decorated with traditional natural earth ochre pigments. This is an outstanding display piece with excellent scale, balanced symmetry, and authentic character, making it an exceptional addition to any collection of Oceanic, ethnographic, or tribal art.
Item Details:
Object: Warrior Arrow Deflector Shield
Culture: Kupkein (Kupiken) People
Region: Upper Sepik River, Papua New Guinea
Period: Mid to Late 20th Century
Dimensions: 42.5" H × 11.5" W × 2.0" D (108 × 29 × 5 cm)
Materials: Indigenous hardwood and natural earth pigments (ochre, clay, charcoal)
Condition Note: This piece exhibits authentic, stable aging, beautiful native patination, and minor surface wear consistent with age and/or traditional use. 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.
