Armband Currency
ClassificationsClothing and Adornments-arm ornaments
Datemid 19th - early 20th Century
Made AtPapua New Guinea
Collection SiteSydney, New South Wales, Australia, Australia
MediumTrochus shell
Dimensions4 7/8 × 4 1/2 × 3/4 in. (12.4 × 11.4 × 1.9 cm)
Credit LineThe George Stanley Lodin Collection
Object number2015.17.27
DescriptionArmlets of trochus shell are found in various locations throughout Oceania. These bands are made from the cross section of a trochus, a genus of medium to large sized sea snails that have conic shaped shells. Their pearly inner edge and narrow form differentiate them from the also commonly used conus shells. These bands were typically worn in sets extending up one’s arm. Examples of similar armbands can be found in many collections with various attributions. This is so because trochus shell armbands were a popular trade item throughout parts of Oceania. Some bands are noted to have been made in the Solomon Islands, but attributed to Fiji. This particular piece is attributed to Papua New Guinea.On View
Not on view
mid 19th - early 20th Century
mid 19th to early 20th Century
late 20th Century
late 19th to 20th Century
c. 1950
20th Century
mid 19th - early 20th Century
20th Century