War Shield, Bahinemo, Middle April River, Upper Sepik River, East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea

War Shield, Bahinemo, Middle April River, Upper Sepik River, East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea

A striking Oceanic artefact, this 19th-century tribal war shield highlights the artistry and cultural heritage of the Bahinemo people from Papua New Guinea. Evocative of the region’s ritual traditions, its bold sculptural style and compelling motifs exemplify the visual language distinctive to the Upper Sepik River area.

Origin: Papua New Guinea, Bahinemo, Middle April River, Upper Sepik River, East Sepik Province
Date: 19th century or earlier
Material: Carved wood

Dimensions: Height 180 cm (5'11"), Width 63 cm (2'1")

Condition: Excellent patina, minor age-related wear; presents beautifully for age.

Reflecting a proud martial tradition, this Oceanic war shield is carved in high relief with an arresting central spirit face framed by swirling ornamentation, where further spirit faces emerge. The chevron dentil borders provide a vivid contrast, enhancing its ceremonial impact. Comparable shields form highlights in public and private collections worldwide and a similar example achieved notable recognition at Sotheby’s, underscoring its significance among Oceanic tribal artefacts.

Notable Features:

• Exquisite Craftsmanship:
  The shield’s deeply carved motifs are rendered in confident, sweeping lines, maximising both visual potency and symbolic depth.
• Distinctive Design:
  The prominent oval form and spirited faces echo indigenous narratives, while the dentil border lends a dynamic rhythm characteristic of Bahinemo shield design.
• Collecting Value:
  Large-scale Oceanic shields of this calibre, provenance, and preserved patina are a rare find, meriting strong collector interest and offering enduring investment appeal.
• Versatile Display:
  Impressively scaled, this war shield serves as a dramatic focal point for interior display, cultural collections, or museum exhibitions devoted to tribal or Oceanic art.

This Papua New Guinea war shield stands as an authentic testament to the ingenuity and spiritual legacy of the Bahinemo people. Imbued with historical gravitas and visual intrigue, it offers collectors and enthusiasts of Oceanic art an exceptional opportunity to acquire a truly distinguished piece.