BRIDE WEALTH STONE 'JE'

Provenance: Private collection Loed van Bussel, Amsterdam

These large, relatively thin, polished and decorated ‘blades’ were important objects of value for the Dugum Dani in the Baliem Valley in the highlands of New Guinea. They were used for the payment of the bride price in marriage transactions, and in major bartering negotiations between families.

Dani people, West Papua
Stone and orchid raffia, 66 x 16 cm

Price: Sold