CultureFijian
Title
Tabua
Date1800s
MediumSperm whale ivory and braided red cloth
Dimensions1 5/8 x 5 5/8 in. (14.3 cm)
Object number1985.16.35
Institutional Credit LineCourtesy of the New Bedford Whaling Museum
DescriptionFijian tabua. A polished whole sperm-whale tooth, with holes pierced at the tip and at the edge of butt end. An unusual necklace of braided red cotton fabric is attached through the holes with sennit fiber. Tabua were ceremonial necklaces presented to cement bonds of allegiance such as wedding, tribal alliances, etc. Considered "the most valuable piece of Fijian property" and as such a symbol of great wealth and prestige.Label TextFijian maker once known (Fiji), tabua (ceremonial whale tooth), 1800s. Sperm whale ivory and braided red cloth, 1 5/8 x 5 5/8 in., New Bedford Whaling Museum, 1985.16.35.On View
Not on view
19th Century
mid 19th Century
late 18th Century-19th Century
late 18th Century-19th Century
