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Aboriginal Riji pearl shell adornment

Transitional Riji Aboriginal Pearl Shell Pubic Cover from the kimberley

Object type: Aboriginal pearl Shell pubic cover

Locality: Kimberley WA

Artist: Unknown

Circa: 1960

Height: 20 cm

Description:

This early transitional Riji pearl shell can be seen two different ways. I see it as a very early and superb example of early Kimberley art.  It is not an artifact and was modified for sale.  The figure in the middle is wearing a sacred Waninga headdress only used by initiates but wearing a European shirt. I think these very early transitional pieces showing a mix of old and new are becoming recognized as increasingly important in the history of aboriginal art.

Price: SOLD

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Initiates from the Kimberley wearing Waninga headdresses

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