Oceanic & African Arts Set New Record Prices
17 JUN 2010 4:00PM
Lot 100
Rare Tongan Whalebone Chest Ornament
Of symmetrical abstract form, fashioned from a single piece of fine marine ivory, from the roof of a whalebone jaw. Center line decorated with subtle linear relief, receding as the line falls through to the base of the lower plate. A relief border of a culminating zigzag motif extends around the entire form. Suspension holes incised at upper corners are hourglass in shape and show signs of wear. The patina is of a rich honey colour.Provenance: Private New Zealand Collection.
W180mm D161mm.
Realised: $23,400 - June 2010
In the second half of the 18th century Tongan warriors began making excursions to Vitian (Fiji) territory, where they were repulsed by arrows from the Vitian bows. In response the Tongans produced large atypical whalebone armour breast plates capable of shielding vital organs. Because of the rarity of the material being used, the chest plate also became a lineage signifier communicating rank and power. The Tongan chest plate is considered by many as a perfect Oceanic form. This was certainly the case with regard to the Fijian warriors of the day who coveted the Tongan Chest plate above all other spoils of war. Ref ‘The art of Tonga’ 1997, Keith St Cartmail.
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