Bitara War Shield, April River, Upper Sepik River Region, Papua New Guinea

Aaron Furman, New York
Allan Stone, New York, acquired from the above on April 1, 1964

Good condition for an object of this great age and rare type. Carved with stone tools. Surface is weathered and worn with age and use. Vertical age cracks, including an open crack running from bottom center approximately 20 inches long as seen in catalogue photograph. Another approximately 19 inch age crack to top center, not extending to top edge, as seen in catalogue photograph. Two holes in lower right front area, probably from a flaw in the wood. Fiber binding on reverse is dry and fragile with cracks and breaks. Marks, nicks, scratches, abrasions, small chips, and wear throughout. Fine aged patina, partially blackened.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For a closely related Bitara shield see Friede (2005 cat. no. 347).