Whalebone and ivory necklace

Late 18th–early 19th century

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

Whales were understood throughout Polynesia to be manifestations of the ocean god Tangaloa (Tahiti: Ta’aroa; Hawai’i: Kanaloa). Whalebone and ivory were therefore considered sacred relics into which the god’s divine essence was fused. Expertly fashioned into elaborate breastplates and pendants or split lengthwise to form spectacular necklaces, this rare and valuable material visually reinforced the chiefs’ descent from the gods and legitimated their rule.

Artwork Details

Overview

Exhibition History

References

Title: Whalebone and ivory necklace
Date: Late 18th–early 19th century
Geography: Austral Islands
Medium: Whalebone, whale ivory; coconut fiber, human hair
Dimensions: H. 9 3/4 × W. 9 × D. 1 in. (24.8 × 22.9 × 2.5 cm)
Classification: Bone/Ivory-Ornaments
Credit Line: Private collection, Gordon Sze, MD
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing