Papua New Guinea Karahut Abelam Nassa Shell Chest Ornament

This is a fabulous Old Woven Fiber Karahut with Nassa Shells, Pig Tusks and Yam Mask face, from the Abelam Tribal People, Wosera Village, Papua New Guinea. These "karahuts" are woven from hibiscus bark twine and sennit fibre, small Nasa shells with applied ochre and charcoal paints. Karahuts are used in a number of ceremonies, during dancing they are held between the teeth using a string coming out from the back about the level of the eyes.

When not being used they are hung around the neck and lie in the middle of the man's back or worn around the neck as a pectoral adornment at sing sing's. Wild pigs are very aggressive and the wearer of the kara-ut believes that when the horns are spouting from his mouth he can adopt its power when fighting.

The name of this art form, Kara means Pig or Boar and Ut means net bag, which has a significant spiritual context. Contained within the body of the figure is a bundle of magical leaves & herbs that aid the wearer. This would a wonderful addition to your collection or home.

Late-20th century Shows age, but is in overall good condition. Tusks are loose 11 Inches Long 6 Inches Wide.

4 x 3 Yam Face 2.5 Inches Deep 11 Inch Long Necklace. AT BACARA WE STAND BEHIND ALL OF OUR MERCHANDISE.

YOUR SATISFACTION IS OUR MAIN GOAL, AND WE THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AT THE WORLD OF BACARA. This item is in the category "Antiques\Ethnographic\Pacific Islands & Oceania". The seller is "bacara-online" and is located in this country: US. This item can be shipped worldwide.

Color: Multi-Color
Culture: Pacific Islands & Oceania
Maker: Papua New Guinea
Material: Fiber Shell
Original/Reproduction: Original