Papua New Guinea Dance & Warfare Wood Bow & Arrows (Auction 2026-05-15, Lot 109)

Sold

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A carved wooden hunting and fishing bow accompanied by a group of wood and bamboo arrows, including a bowstring fashioned from split bamboo cane. The arrows feature a range of sharply carved barbed tips, some with pronounced, serrated projections designed for maximum penetration and difficulty of removal, reflecting forms derived from warfare and hunting implements. Several examples also display incised decoration and painted surfaces, suggesting use not only in practical contexts but also in ceremonial or dance settings, where such weapons could serve symbolic roles associated with power and strength. Size of bow: 81″ L x 1.25″ W (205.7 cm x 3.2 cm)

Provenance: private Park City, Utah, USA collection acquired in PNG in the 1970’s

Fissures and small losses, and minor chips to a few of the more delicate projections. Rattan wraps attaching several blades are fraying and unraveling. Bowstring is too short for bow and may not be original.