DAGGER
Abelam people, Maprik region, PNG, Melanesia
First half of the 20th century
cassowary bone
H.: 32; L.: 7.5; Thickness: 2.5 cm

Dagger carved from a cassowary femur in a very slender, needle-like manner, engraved with geometric designs along the entire length. The head is stylized to form the profile of a cassowary.

It was used to take a small quantity of lime, previously mixed with calcium oxide and betel.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON