Description:

Polynesia, Hawaii, ca. 19th century CE. Made from whale bone, this is a palaoa, a neck ornament traditionally worn by both male and female ali'i (chiefs). The true meaning of this ornament is not known, although some have suggested that it represents a tongue with the power to speak the law. The hook-shaped pendant originally would have been suspended around the neck with thick plaits of human hair through the wide horizontal socket at its top. At present it has a cord strung through it to make it wearable. Size: 1" W x 2.25" H (2.5 cm x 5.7 cm); 4.75" H (12.1 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection; ex-private Hawaii, USA collection

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#148592

  • Condition: Intact, with rich patina on surface. Wear commensurate with age and handling. Cord is old but not original.

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September 5, 2019 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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