Vakuta Island, Trobriand Islands, Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea

A beautiful old Trobriand islands drum. Hard wood in long narrow form, the handle flanked by what appear to be two nurse sharks while there are stylised frigate birds on the each end of the raised central ridge. There are raised pierced ridges on the base for vegetal attachments added for important ceremonies. The lizard skin membrane intact, and there is a village repair on the handle using found copper wire. The wood displays a varied aged patina with a small area of stable surface rot on the reverse. In overall excellent condition Late 19th Century. Custom mounted.

Length: 68 cm or 26.75 inches

Price: $1500.00 AUD