INDONESIA: SUMBA: mamuli earring, 58mm, EF, ex Charles Opitz Collection. Mamuli are precious metal ornaments of the Sumba people, Sumba, Indonesia. They are found in the megalithic society of the western Sumba people, e.g. the Anakalang society. The mamuli ornaments have a shape which represents the female genitalia, symbolizing the woman as the giver of life. Mamuli are the most important Sumbanese precious metal valuables and are seen as heirloom objects which served in important exchange rituals. This mamuli purchased by the collector from natives on the Sumba Island when visiting in 1995.
Estimate: USD 75 - 100