The Mombari boy from a mid-20th century postcard photograph at top left is an example of the highly elaborate costumes including headdress that were worn in everyday life and for special ceremonies in New Guinea. While this raiment would appear highly ambiguous in terms of sexual identity throughout the majority of the world, it was highly gender specific in this indigenous society.

These Papuan men in the illustration at bottom left from one of a multitude of indigenous tribes from the modern Papua New Guinea are shown with highly elaborate coiffure and makeup. The hundreds of indigenous tribes from this region each have their own set of customs and in many cases, languages. The elabarate pompadours on these men are perhaps signs of wealth since their utililty in labor related activities seems highly dubious.

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