RARE NOKEN ORCHID STEM BAG, WEST SEPIK, PAPUA NEW GUINEA

A rare early 20th century handwoven Noken Orchid Stem Bag with natural bark fibres, in good overall condition, handles distressed, measuring 43.2cm (17in) wide; Provenance: purchased by direct descent from the family of Dr. George P. Holland, noted entomologist and former Director of The Entomology Research Institute, Canadian Department of Agriculture; Dr. Holland obtained these Indigenous artefacts while on a 5-month scientific research expedition to Papua New Guinea in 1957, and was also awarded the distinction of Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada