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Phantom shield

Wahgi people, Western Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea
Phantom shield
 (c. 1970)

Medium
synthetic polymer paint and enamel paint on wood, metal, cane

Measurements
165.2 × 68.0 × 16.2 cm

Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased, 2006
© the artists

Reproduction requests

Gallery location
Not on display

Artwork Details

Place/s of Execution
Kerowagi District, Wahgi Valley, Western Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea

Accession Number
2006.290

Department
Pacific Art

This digital record has been made available on NGV Collection Online through the generous support of The Vizard Foundation

Physical description
The Phantom, a contemporary symbol of invincibility warns the bearer's opponents to beware of a man who never dies. The shield bears a number plate above the Phantom's head and a car emblem or crest forms a badge on the Phantom's belt. Both of these elements are symbols of pride and wealth: the clan owned a car.

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