Yëwaa Exchange Currency - Abelam Culture, Maprik Region, Papua New Guinea
Yëwaa EXCHANGE CURRENCY
Abelam culture, Maprik region, Papua New Guinea
First half of the 20th century
Shell, cotton and cowrie shells
Diameter: 8.5 cm
This coin consists of a twisted ring made from white shell. It is adorned with a braided cotton band decorated with forty-seven cowrie shells.
It was used on occasions such as weddings, funerals or trade. Thus, the young groom was required to offer a set of six rings to his future in-laws as compensation. They symbolised the four limbs of his future wife, her head and her torso. If the set of rings was not accepted, this promised strong ties between the two new households; if, on the other hand, all six were accepted, this signified a symbolic union of the two families.
These coins required a specific ritualistic skill, reserved for only a few villages.
Text and photos © FCP CORIDON
Abelam culture, Maprik region, Papua New Guinea
First half of the 20th century
Shell, cotton and cowrie shells
Diameter: 8.5 cm
This coin consists of a twisted ring made from white shell. It is adorned with a braided cotton band decorated with forty-seven cowrie shells.
It was used on occasions such as weddings, funerals or trade. Thus, the young groom was required to offer a set of six rings to his future in-laws as compensation. They symbolised the four limbs of his future wife, her head and her torso. If the set of rings was not accepted, this promised strong ties between the two new households; if, on the other hand, all six were accepted, this signified a symbolic union of the two families.
These coins required a specific ritualistic skill, reserved for only a few villages.
Text and photos © FCP CORIDON
320 €
Period: 20th century
Style: Tribal Art
Condition: Excellent condition
Reference (ID): 1755250
Availability: In stock
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