This is a very difficult area to explore, just being amateurs. Saying that is not to belittle our knowledge. The people in charge know little more when it comes to PNG. Apparently the externally carved handle integral to the back of the shield is generally excepted as a South Western form of shield making. Perhaps this very practical approach might extend a great distance. According to "Shields Of Melanesia" The Asmat shield may vary according to location as in, various nomadic tribes in the north of the recognised region called "Asmat". One also has to consider how much the influence of the market has had on the idea of what an Asmat shield is. I often believe the market some how creates a certain taste of its own.
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