Asmat shield

early 20th century

A line of flying foxes and a giant fruit bat cover the center of this shield. In its aptitude for consuming large types of fruit, the bat was equated with a headhunter. Along the side are chains of what may be the fingers of the flying fox.

Wood, raffia and pigment

68 3/4 x 24 1/2in. (174.6 x 62.2cm)

Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Griffin, in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Seattle Art Museum

2004.237

Photo: Susan Cole

Not currently on view

Resources

Published ReferencesMcClusky, Pamela, The Art of War, A Community of Collectors, Seattle, WA: Seattle Art Museum, 2008, p. 139, illus. 118.

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