Frontal ornament

Papua New Guinea

First half of the 20th century

Shell and natural fibers

H: 11; W.: 13: cm

Bailer shell, called melo amphora , cut into an oval and pierced on the side parts. In these holes were slipped suspension links made of plant fibers. Tied behind the head, they allowed the ornament to be properly maintained.

It was worn by women and men of a certain social level.

Illustrative photography: David Becker, “Woman with a bailer shell”, 1987 © Musée de Nouvelle-Calédonie.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON