Set of Two Bailer Neckress Shells – Asmat, 19th Century Casuarina Coast, Southwest Papua This rare set of two bailer shells originates from the Asmat people of the Casuarina Coast. Carved from large marine shells, these objects occupy a remarkable position between ritual symbolism and daily use. In Asmat men’s houses (jeu), young men traditionally slept with their heads resting on objects of similar form and curvature to the human skull. The shape was not accidental. The skull was regarded as a vessel of power, strength, and ancestral presence. By sleeping upon such forms, young men were believed to absorb qualities associated with maturity, courage, and vitality—an embodied preparation for adulthood. Later, objects of this same type were also used as water scoops during the rinsing and processing of sago, the Asmat staple food. This dual function—ritual association and practical use—is characteristic of Asmat material culture, where power and daily life were never fully separated. The surfaces show age, wear, and use consistent with 19th-century examples. The shells retain a strong sculptural presence, their smooth interiors contrasting with the worked exterior edges. As a matched pair, they are particularly uncommon. Such bailer shells are today extremely rare, especially with clear provenance from the Casuarina Coast and in a set of two. They represent an early period of Asmat culture, before large-scale external influence, when objects carried layered meanings and long lives. A powerful and evocative pair, combining form, function, and belief. A gorgeous and rare piece — an outstanding addition to any collection of Oceanic art. A museum-quality artifact of outstanding ethnographic and artistic value. Secure packaging and insured shipment will be arranged with care. A striking and authentic example of Asmat warrior art — deeply rooted in the region’s ancestral and headhunting traditions. Packed with care Sending worldwide Sold by Koos Knol, ethnographer and anthropologist, dealer of Papua Tribal Art for more than 30 years, expert and author of the book “Papua Blues”, written in Dutch. (Maybe in English next year.)  Published end of October 2024 A book about inside stories, a book that deals with the many encounters with special people in West Papua, the impressive experiences that the author has, about special encounters with men and women who tell him about secret things, about ethnographic objects and initiate him into the rituals and ceremonies. A must have for collectors, ethnographers, ethnologists, anthropologists and museums   Google:Papua Blues Koos Knol