A superb and authentic tapa cloth from Lake Sentani, decorated with powerful spirit figures and stylised animals. The bold iconography reflects the rich cosmology of the Sentani people, whose visual language expresses ancestral presence, protective forces, and the intimate relationship between humans and the natural world. Such cloths were traditionally worn as dance aprons, moving rhythmically with the body during ceremonial performances. The imagery often combines anthropomorphic spirit beings with fish, birds, or other lake-related creatures — an unmistakable reference to the spiritual landscape surrounding Lake Sentani. Field collected in 1993, this example retains strong graphic clarity and ceremonial character. Early field-collected Sentani tapa is increasingly scarce on the market. ⸻ Cultural Context Lake Sentani is renowned for its highly distinctive barkcloth tradition. Unlike many other regions in New Guinea, Sentani designs are immediately recognisable for their: • Flowing curvilinear spirit forms • Symmetrical compositions • Integration of animal and ancestral imagery • Strong rhythmic patterning These cloths were not merely decorative — they were embodiments of myth, identity, and spiritual protection. ⸻ Collector’s Note Authentic, field-collected Sentani tapa with clear spirit imagery and documented provenance (1993) is highly desirable among collectors of Oceanic art. Works used in dance contexts are particularly valued for their cultural integrity. A strong and authentic example of West Papuan material culture. We pack with care We sent all over the world