Kiriwina Island, Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea

An attractive pair of Massim ceremonial earrings. Constructed from small rings of turtle shell that fit around the ear lobe, with large turtle rings, with bagi shell disc attachments. Most of the binding attaching the bagi shell to the rings is the original bark fibre binding with some later repairs using black cotton. These earrings are still very prized possessions amongst the Massim people of Kiriwina, who usually wear just the small turtle rings, and only wear the bagi shell larger rings at ceremonial occasions. A fantastic and wearable (as long as you have the right piercing) example of primitive jewellery; in excellent condition. Mounted on a steel display stand.

Height: 11.5 cm or 4.5 inches.
Price: Sold