Bilum bags are traditional looped string bags, which originate in Papua New Guinea and were commonly used (and still continue to be used today) for carrying food and animals, such as pigs, and even babies.

These bilum bags form part of an extensive collection of textiles, dress and handiwork assembled from 1953 to 2001 by Mrs Helen McLeod Crocker, traveller and collector. Almost thirty countries are represented in the collection including Afghanistan, Australia, Bali, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Central America, Central Asia, China, Europe, India, Japan, Kenya, Lao, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Nigeria, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Salvador, Somalia, South America, Syria, Thailand, The Ivory Coast, Turkey and Yemen. Helen was very selective in the objects she acquired and the inspiration for her collection originated from her desire to preserve the true essence of the societies she encountered.

These bags were made in Papua New Guinea by unknown makers, between 1953 and 1977. They are of looped construction using natural and dyed string.

These bags were collected by Mrs Helen Crocker during her travels to Papua New Guinea.

String bags or bilums (2), looped construction, maker unknown, Papua New Guinea, 1953-1977

The first bag is a finely looped and finished bilum bag in three shades of brown with a long handle. The second bag is a looped bilum bag in brown, with patches of yellow and white.

Made: 1953 - 1977

No marks.

2011/44/12

1953 - 1977