Provenance: Loed von Bussel, Amsterdam, (a notation written in ink on the inner bamboo framework states “coll. V.Bussel. Bayning/New Britain). Von Bussel acquired the work from a Catholic missionary museum in Blonried, reportedly collected in situ by the bishop. 

These shields were attached to poles and worn on the back of ceremonial dances.  For further reference, see Carl A. Schmitz,  Wantoat Art and Religion of the Northeast New Guinea Papuans, (Mouton & Co., 1963).