Leg weapon-sharkstooth
Production date
Early 20th Century
Country
Kiribati
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Object detail
Description
Register description: Leggings: with sharks teeth
Classification
INDIGENOUS CULTURES
ARMS & ARMOUR
ARMS & ARMOUR
Maker
Production date
Early 20th Century
Production place
Measurements
L365 x W125 x H21 mm - approximate.
Media/Materials description
Coconut fibre, shark teeth
History and use
This pair of leg weapons studded with shark teeth form part of the highly elaborate weaponry and body armour of the Micronesian nation of Kiribati. When dressed in full body armour, I-Kiribati warriors would wear a rigid cuirass and back plate with helmet and leggings all woven from coconut fibre. I-Kiribati armour is the most developed form of body protection in the Pacific, and was made to protect the wearer against attack from shark tooth weapons.
This set of leg weapons was acquired by the museum in the 1960s.
This set of leg weapons was acquired by the museum in the 1960s.
Registration number
E6128.1
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