Ornament-Whale tooth
Production date
Early 20th Century
Country
Fiji
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Object detail
Description
Register description: Ornament-Whale tooth, TABUA. Sperm Whale - Physeter macrocephalus
Classification
INDIGENOUS CULTURES
Maker
Production date
Early 20th Century
Production place
Measurements
L171 x W54 x H46
Length including cord - 185 mm
Length including cord - 185 mm
Media/Materials description
Whale tooth, plant fibre
History and use
In Fiji, sperm whale teeth (or tabua) are highly valued prestige and exchange items. Individual teeth, which are polished and strung on a cord of braided sennit, are presented at important ceremonies including weddings and funerals.
This tooth was acquired by Queensland Museum in the 1920s.
This tooth was acquired by Queensland Museum in the 1920s.
Registration number
E1625
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