Earring Item Number: 3557/7 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Bamboo ear plug sealed inside a plastic bag; bag is secured shut with a paper manufacturer's label stapled over the opening. Earring is hollow and cylindrical with two triangular protrusions at the front opening; tuft of animal fur stuffed in between protrusions. Triangular, straight, and curved lines burned(?) around front of earring; diamond design amongst lines underneath triangular protrusions. Yellow card inserted into bag, behind earring, with image of person wearing one and another of the earring itself; paragraph of text describes materials, and technique for ear piercing.
Purchased by the donor in 1974-1975, possibly from the Wire Trade store, located on the Catholic Mission in Wewak. The items were made by the Au people of West Sepik province (Sandaun), possibly in Aitape?