Ceremonial Boar Tusk & Cowrie Shell Necklace | Sepik River | Ron Perry Provenance

3363-032

Offered for sale is a beautiful and authentic ceremonial boar tusk and cowrie shell necklace (bilas) from the Sepik River region of Papua New Guinea. Worn primarily by tribal leaders and high-status individuals during important gatherings, marriage dowry trades (bride price), and cultural sing-sing festivals, these ornate body ornaments serve as powerful symbols of prestige, wealth, and social standing within the community.

This striking piece features a prominent, crescent-shaped wild boar tusk pendant attached to a flexible, hand-braided natural plant fiber band. The entire length of the woven cord is densely embellished with meticulously hand-stitched, sliced cowrie shells, creating a contrasting visual rhythm against the rich texture of the fiber. Exhibiting beautiful native character and traditional craftsmanship, this necklace is a wonderful display piece and an exceptional addition to any collection of Oceanic, ethnographic, or wearable tribal art.

This Bilas 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. This is an outstanding display piece with excellent scale, striking relief carvings, and authentic character, making it an exceptional addition to any collection of Oceanic, ethnographic, or tribal art.

Item Details:

Object: Ceremonial Boar Tusk and Cowrie Shell Necklace (Bilas)

Culture: Sepik River Peoples

Region: Middle Sepik River, Papua New Guinea

Period: Mid to Late 20th Century

Provenance: Acquired directly from the Ron Perry Arizona Room collection

Materials: Wild boar tusk, sliced cowrie shells, and hand-braided natural plant fiber

Condition Note: This piece exhibits authentic, stable aging, beautiful native patination on the bone, and minor fiber 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.