Fine, authentic tapa cloth (barkcloth) from Sentani, West Papua. Collected in 1990 in the Lake Sentani area and preserved in a private collection ever since. This hand-beaten barkcloth carries the distinctive visual language of Sentani art: rhythmic geometric motifs, earth pigments, and a strong graphic presence. Traditionally, such cloths were used in ceremonial contexts, exchanges, and as markers of identity and status within the lakeside communities. The surface shows the subtle irregularities and fibre structure typical of genuine barkcloth. Natural pigments in ochre, brown, and black remain vivid. The patina and minor signs of age confirm authenticity and careful use. Provenance: Collected on site in Sentani in 1990. Material: Beaten tree bark with natural pigments. Condition: Very good, consistent with age. Period: Late 20th century, traditional manufacture. A refined and culturally significant piece from West Papua — suitable for collectors of Oceanic art, ethnographic material, or as a striking wall piece with presence and history. We pack with care, sending all over the world for 35 years already A must have for collectors, ethnographers, ethnologists, anthropologists and museums 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