Riji (carved pearlshell)
Datec 1970
Object number00045197
NameShell pendant
MediumPearlshell (pintada maximada), Ochre (natural pigment)
DimensionsOverall: 160 x 120 mm, 159.85 g
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionKnown as Riji in the Kimberleys region of Western Australia.
The Ceremonial Pearlshell Phallocrypt engraved with geometric and culturally significant designs which has been in-filled with red ochre (natural pigment).
in by Aboriginal men from Western Australia, Dampier Peninsula.
Known as Riji (with patterns) or Gwarn (without patterns), the pearlshell is deeply incised and painted with natural pigment or ochre. Geometric designs on verso, hold deeply signficant meanings and purpose. Two holes are grooved into the shell for threading rope made my human hair for the purpose of being worn around the waist, as shell to covers the groin area.SignificanceOrigin most likely to be from the Bardi Jawi peoples region of the Dampier Peninsula, Western Australia.
