SIMBU BILUM

The five category of Simbu bilum pieces have distinct local names in traditional societies. The white fiber is twisted with cuscus fur to make the twisted ropes smooth and warm in cold climate. The process is only done for bilum wear and sacred bilum pieces. The pure white three pieces of pig, baby and garden bilums are weaved without cuscus fur because of the purposes they serve. The five categories bilum pieces do not have the common national color feature nor designs and patterns among all traditional societies of Simbu Province. But they occupy distinct cultural spaces of societies they represent. Few pieces of pig, baby and garden bilums are lost and need to be revived and preserved for future generations.