Two Santa Cruz, Soloman Islands, Breast Pendants 'Tema'

Two Santa Cruz, Soloman Islands, Breast Pendants 'Tema'
known as 'Kap Kap'
Late 19th Century - Early 20th Century
Size : 15cm diameter and 14.5 cm diameter
6 ins diameter and 5 ins diameter
Worn by initiated men as a symbol of status these pendants are called 'Tema'. The disc is made of tridacna, or giant clam shell, pierced to retain the hawksbill turtle shell panel and cut to resemble a stylised silhouette of a Frigate bird beneath Bonito fish, visualised as lozengers. In the Soloman Islands the frigatebird is associated with fishing prowess, strength and endurance.

Two Santa Cruz, Soloman Islands, Breast Pendants 'Tema'

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ENQUIRIES

+44 (0)7768 236921
+44 (0)7836 684133

enquiries@finch-and-co.co.uk