Earring

Purchased by the donor in 1974-1975, possibly from the Wire Trade store, located on the Catholic Mission in Wewak. The items were made by the Au people of West Sepik province (Sandaun), possibly in Aitape?

Bamboo ear plug sealed inside a plastic bag; bag is secured shut with a paper manufacturer's label stapled over the opening. Earring is hollow and cylindrical with two triangular protrusions at the front opening; tuft of animal fur stuffed in between protrusions. Triangular, straight, and curved lines burned(?) around front of earring; diamond design amongst lines underneath triangular protrusions. Yellow card inserted into bag, behind earring, with image of person wearing one and another of the earring itself; paragraph of text describes materials, and technique for ear piercing.