It is a bold, but complex positive-negative design. War shield collected in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea near Mt. Hagen. Shields come in all sizes from large planks that a bowman or spear thrower can shelter his whole body behind, to smaller breastplate ones. The woods used are generally lightweight like the roots of mangrove trees. Most are single planks and the backs have cane framework handles.
Designs vary from tribe to tribe.
Geometric designs are common in the PNG Highlands. On the Sepik River and in the Asmat, truly powerful images can defeat an enemy just by being shown. Conversely, these images are dangerous to handle and their rituals have to be strictly observed by the Big Men who are the fight leaders. In areas where tribes are at peace, shields are still important and powerful in a ceremonial context. 64-69, text plus many photos of contemporary shields Asmat Images, pp.