As we prepare for our next and last journey to Papua New Guinea, it is important to share the “why” of Part Two of Celebration & Repatriation time of life.
In 1995, a significant necklace was acquired and displayed in our home as a museum quality piece. Who would care if both George and I were no longer here? The answer was to repatriate this item to the country it is from. And it’s a special home!
It is acknowledged that Doc (James Fabien) has been both my computer expert at Dr. PC Fix and now included in his business, Pony Express. He and his team are incredible and have done so much over the 12 + years I have worked with them. Who would I trust to package and ship overseas more than him? No one but Doc.
https://www.ponyexpressredmond.com/
On the receiving end is Alicia Sahib of Bank South Pacific Headquarters in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Just look at a map and see how far this delicate piece had to travel from the Seattle area.
I did receive a thorough description of this prized necklace from Bob Bates of Trans Niugini Tours.
Bob is a man who is not only a friend, but one I’ve admired for his love and respect of the country.
The piece is from Tambanum Village. It is a clan symbol, the clan leader would wear this piece inside the Spirit House when discussing clan matters, like historical events, disputes etc. It was also worn when initiation rights were being carried out on young men in the Spirit House. It is the Symbol for the Scorpion clan.The dark portion between the two pig’s tusks represents the father and the bottom triangle represents the mother. The pieces in the circle represent the wealth of the clan. This bridal necklace is to be worn at special ceremonies and only by the clan leader.
Watch this short video to the end.
| It is hoped that Bob Bates can fly from the mountain area to join a celebration, where we can pass this historic and beautiful piece on to him for a newly incorporated museum at Rondon Ridge. It was originally acquired at Karawari Lodge, one of Bob’s first locations along the Karawari River and an important tributary to the Mighty Sepik.
This trip will most likely be my last and will include visiting many talented artists while in Port Moresby, followed by Tufi Resort in Oro Province and Walindi/FeBrina on the majestic island of New Britain. What’s better yet? We’ll celebrate our friendships and the 20th anniversary of the original expedition for the documentary film.
Original Expedition 2005 map by Dick Doyle.
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