Fine and Rare Massim Shield, Trobriand Islands, Papua New Guinea

Fine and Rare Massim Shield, Trobriand Islands, Papua New Guinea
vai ova
Wood, pigments, vegetable fiber
Height 27 1/2in (69.5cm)

Provenance
Everett Rassiga, New York/Budapest/Geneva
Parke-Bernet Galleries, New York 23 October 1971
Freida and Milton Rosenthal Collection, New York
Sotheby's, New York, 14 November 2008, Lot 79
Private Collection

According to Alfred C. Haddon (The Decorative Art of British New Guinea, Dublin University Press, 1894), elaborately carved shield of this type were called vai ova, carved from vayoula, an acacia wood. They are rare and only the bravest warriors carried them into battle. Several theories have been postulated about the design meanings, including destructive emanations, reproduction, copulation and reincarnation, yet most explanations of the meanings remain hypothetical.

Of classic convex shape with surrealistic designs in ocher, black and lime pigments amongst a field of 'E-motifs'; a rattan looped handle on the back with ties coming through on the front center.