Shell Currency
Production date
Unknown
Country
Papua New Guinea
State/Province
East New Britain
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Object detail
Description
Shell currency, or tambu, made of nassarius pullus shell threaded on rattan strips.
Classification
INDIGENOUS CULTURES Melanesian & South Sea Islander currency
Maker
Production date
Unknown
Production place
Measurements
Total length of all segments: L2535 mm
Media/Materials description
Shell and rattan.
History and use
Tambu was and still is the traditional currency used in New Britain. Twelve shells is roughly equal to ten toea (the Papua New Guinean monetary currency).
Following the end of the north-west monsoons, the Nassa shell is collected, its upper curvature is removed and the individual flatter pieces are then lined up on strips of rattan.
The nassa shell, though used as both currency and as an ornamental item, is prepared differently according to its function.
Following the end of the north-west monsoons, the Nassa shell is collected, its upper curvature is removed and the individual flatter pieces are then lined up on strips of rattan.
The nassa shell, though used as both currency and as an ornamental item, is prepared differently according to its function.
Registration number
E8595
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