Papua New Guinea Bark & Hide Quiver w/ 12 Wood Arrows (Auction 2026-06-05, Lot 157)

$321.25

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, ca. 20th century CE. A striking hunting set, this Papua New Guinea quiver retains its original complement of twelve arrows, offering a complete and tangible glimpse into the material culture of highland or forest-based hunting traditions. The elongated quiver is formed from bark and tightly wrapped in animal hide, its surface etched with bands of linear and geometric striations that lend both texture and visual rhythm. The arrows, crafted from slender wooden shafts, vary in construction, some fitted with metal tips while others are bound with cane or animal sinew, reflecting adaptation and repair over time. Their differing forms suggest use for a range of purposes, from small game hunting to more specialized tasks. Within the quiver, a woven cane ring helps secure and organize the shafts, an understated yet practical detail of indigenous design. Size of quiver: 21″ L x 3.6″ W (53.3 cm x 9.1 cm); of longest arrow: 26.5″ L (67.3 cm)

Together, the ensemble speaks to a living tradition of craftsmanship, where natural materials are shaped with ingenuity and purpose. Both utilitarian and sculptural, the set carries the marks of use and time, preserving the quiet legacy of hunting practices in Papua New Guinea.

Provenance: private Park City, Utah, USA collection

Condition: Chipping and loss to hide at top of quiver. Some perforations and tears to hide in areas. Losses to arrows. Good remains of etched decoration and rich patinas throughout.