Asmat Ceremonial Shield from New Guinea - Ca 85 yrs old shawl Teak Anglo Indian Pedestal Desk

Teak Anglo Indian Pedestal Desk - 19thC

Raised height Max 66 cms - lowest height 45 cms

The zig-zag design on the bracelet gives the piece a wonderful tactile feel

32 x 17 x 10

Crafted on a hand-powered lathe

Asmat Ceremonial Shield from New Guinea - Ca 85 yrs old shawl Teak Anglo Indian Pedestal DeskAsmat shields were created as functional items for warfare, and were meant to protect the user from the spears and arrows of his enemy. At the same time, the imagery that is carved and painted on the surface of the shield endows the piece with the power of the ancestors. Wood carving is a flourishing tradition among the Asmat, and wood carvers are held in high esteem. The culture hero Fumeripits is considered to be the very first wood carver, and all