War Shield, Asmat People
Details:

Origin:  West Irian Jaya, Northwest Territory, Weo Village (Area B)
Height:  78.5 Inches

 

This shield is a classical Area B example. The entire shield still bears traces of natural pigments, and is classically "Weo" in style, in that it dates from the time when shields could be attributed to specific villages based upon their style alone.

  

full view

 

Its size and condition are remarkable for its age, and its history is apparent from the spear and arrow points inbedded in its surface.

The head of the shield is of the rayfish (visi) variety, and the motifs occupying the body of the shield are typical of this region. There is a crack that runs vertically from the bottom of the shield on the right side, and a spear tip is lodged at the center of this crack.

 

detail showing spear piercing
  

There are numerous arrow tips in the shield, as well as at least two holes made by arrows or spears. The grip is well used and worn. 

The shield was collected in the village of Weo, in the western district of Asmat territory. At the time of collection it was owned by a man named Souker. In the early 1950s this shield was carried into a now legendary battle by the Weo War Chief "Komur" against the village of Irogo.

 

bottom detail

 

In this battle, Timinin, the War Chief from Irogo, got close enough to Komur to throw a spear directly at him. The spear lodged in the shield, and its tip remains. Timinin was then killed by the men of Weo, and his head taken as a trophy. After the death of Komur, the shield was named for him. At the time of collection the shield still bore the name "Komur."

  

back handle detail