Sentani Bark-Cloth Painting – Fish Motif – Hand-Painted Tribal Art from Papua New Guinea Beautiful bark-cloth painting from the Lake Sentani region of Papua New Guinea, entirely handcrafted using traditional indigenous techniques. Created from the fibrous inner bark of local trees, the bark was carefully beaten and softened to produce a flexible natural canvas before being hand-painted with traditional pigments. The composition features a striking arrangement of stylized fish motifs surrounding a central symbolic figure, all enclosed within a geometric border characteristic of Sentani artistic traditions. Fish play an important role in the culture of the Lake Sentani communities, where fishing has long been a vital source of sustenance and an integral part of daily life. Such motifs frequently appear in local art and ceremonial objects, reflecting the close relationship between the people and the waters of the lake. The warm ochre tones of the barkcloth create a beautiful contrast with the black, white, burgundy, and yellow painted decoration. The visible bark fibers, irregular edges, and hand-painted details emphasize the authentic handcrafted nature of the piece. The surface displays attractive age and use, with minor imperfections, folds, and natural irregularities consistent with traditional bark-cloth manufacture. These characteristics enhance both its authenticity and ethnographic appeal. A striking example of Oceanic tribal art, ideal for collectors of ethnographic objects, tribal interiors, Oceanic culture, and Wunderkammer collections. Dimensions: 91 × 51 cm Material: Hand-painted bark cloth (tapa) Origin: Lake Sentani, Papua New Guinea Period: Late 20th century / early 21st century.