Necklace with Half-Moon Pendant, 20th century
Unknown artist, Solomon Islandsexpand_more
Shell, tortoise shell, stringexpand_more
The John Cowles Family Fundexpand_more 2001.130.2
Not on Viewexpand_more
This shell pendant is a beautiful example of the unique blend of both Polynesian and Melanesian cultural elements found in the Santa Cruz Islands. The ornament is made of golden-lipped pearlshell, a rare material available only through trade with neighboring islands. The object's form also reflects outside cultural influences. Most pendants worn in the Solomon Islands are round, but use of the crescent shape originated in central Polynesia, and spread to the Santa Cruz Islands through trade with Polynesian whaling crews in the early 19th century. The tortoiseshell ornament on the front of the pendant represents a frigate bird, a sacred animal. These birds were honored for their skills at fishing, and were seen as powerful hunters; attributes admired by men from this area. Body ornaments such as this one were highly valued. Each household had a collection of them, much of it handed down, which made up a significant portion of that family's wealth. Most of these prestigious items were worn by men, generally on ceremonial occasions.
Details
- Title
- Necklace with Half-Moon Pendant
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2001.130.2
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
Does something look wrong with this image? Let us know
Zoom in on the left to the detail you'd like to save. Click 'Save detail' and wait until the image updates. Right click the image to 'save image as' or copy link, or click the image to open in a new tab.