Papua New Guinea Kwoma people, Washkuk Hills, Bride Price Beltmid-1970s Traditional Bride Price Belt originating from the Kwoma people of the village of Tongwinjamg, located in the Washkuk Hills area of the upper Sepik region in Papua New Guinea. Dating to approximately 1975, the piece is meticulously crafted from multiple rows of small nassa shells (often referred to as "dog whelk" shells) sewn onto a flexible natural-fiber string backing. Such belts serve as a form of traditional currency and ritual wealth. In Kwoma culture, items like these are essential components of ceremonial exchanges, particularly for marriage payments where they symbolize the social and economic bonds between families. lenght: 210 cm; 2 cm width $100-150
