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Bone knife from Papua New Guinea
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Bone knife from Papua New Guinea
Traditional bone knife of unknown age, from Sepik Highlands of Papua New Guinea. Made from tibiotarsus of Cassowary Casuarius sp
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Media ID 8610454
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10713653
Artefact Artifact Bone Carving Cassowaries Cassowary Casuariidae Casuariiformes Casuarius Knife Melanesia Papua New Guinea Sauropsid Sauropsida Sepik
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EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: Ancient Bone Knife from the Sepik Highlands of Papua New Guinea: A Testament to Cassowary Worship and Traditional Craftsmanship This photograph showcases an ancient bone knife from the Sepik Highlands of Papua New Guinea. The knife, made from the tibiotarsus of a Cassowary (Casuarius sp.), is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship of the region. Cassowaries, large, flightless birds native to the tropical rainforests of New Guinea and northeastern Australia, have held significant spiritual and cultural importance for the people of Papua New Guinea for millennia. The Sepik people, in particular, have been known to revere these birds, incorporating their bones into various aspects of their daily life and rituals. The intricately carved bone knife in the photograph is a prime example of the artistic and anatomical knowledge possessed by the Sepik people. The tibiotarsus, a bone located in the lower leg of the Cassowary, has been expertly transformed into a functional and aesthetically pleasing weapon. The intricate designs etched into the bone suggest that this knife was not only a tool but also an object of great significance, perhaps used in ceremonial contexts. The Sauropsida order, to which both Cassowaries and humans belong, is characterized by the presence of a backbone and the absence of a true diaphragm. This shared anatomical feature underscores the deep connection between humans and the natural world, as well as the remarkable ability of the Sepik people to harness the potential of the materials available to them. This ancient bone knife, with its intricate designs and historical significance, serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions that continue to thrive in Papua New Guinea and the broader Melanesian region.
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