Bilum means womb, the place from which all life springs, and is a very special tradition in Papua. Bilums were, and still are today, worn by men and women, inherited through centuries, across tribes and regions, used to carry babies, goods and the history of the women in the family. This particular bag is made to carry medicine, woven with ancient techniques using natural plant material and decorated with buffalo teeth and wood beads.

Medicine bilums were used by the local Shaman to hold sacred potions for curing villagers and for ceremonies to manifest positive change in the physical world. The buffalo is one of the most important animals in Papua, from earthly and spiritual aspects. It’s believed that the buffalo spirit gives special powers to medicine and that it helps humans to be strong, respectful, kind and stay true to themselves. 

The Bilum bag comes complete with a blackened metal stand and its intriguing story printed out for you inside a beautiful envelope. Being handmade each piece is slightly different. Dimensions: 49 x 12,5 x 12cm with the stand.

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