‘Kina shells’ is the name for these crescent-shaped cut and polished clam shells of the yellow-lipped clam. They are worn by the men in the highlands of New Guinea as ornaments for the neck or chest and even to this day used as a means of payment (‘primitive money’) in the payment of the ‘bride price’. These shells were traded from the New Guinea coast into the highlands. Incidentally: even today, the currency of Papua-New Guinea is called ‘kina’.
1: A very old ‘kina shell’, with an original, very old, wide, plaited carrying strap made from the twisted plant fibre bands. The shell and strap coloured red with ochre (for the purposes of beautification). The carrying strap has old tears (not throughout). Otherwise no damage. Conversely, very good, old shiny patina as a result of protracted use (on the back of the shell and on the carrying strap). Height: 17 cm (the shell alone); Width: 17 cm. Early 20th century.
2: An old ‘kina shell’ with a decorative dotted line along the neckline. A crack with original repair (glued). A piece with good, old shiny patina in the area of the pendant piercings (on the back). The chain of sesame seed beads is new and probably added later. The shell is substantially older. Height: 17 cm (the shell alone); Width: c. 20 cm. First half of the 20th century. (ME)

Provenance:
Private Collection, Vienna.