solomon islands shield ???

[colin henshaw]

Hi

It must be a shield from the Solomon Islands, though I have never seen one quite like it. The dark covering is probably "parinarium nut paste" (putty nut). Usually that is applied as a base for shell inlay. These shields are usually made of wicker or occasionally, wood. Must be 19th century, I would think.

An interesting piece and worthy of further research.

Regards.