Breastplate "tema", "tambe" or "tepatu"
German Private Collection, Munich
Description
shell of the giant clam (Tridacna gigas), turtle shell, plant fibre, old inscription on the back: “Salomon … Santa Cruz 4631 7-6-30”, old label: “42”, acrylic base
Originating from Ndende (Nendö) Island, these necklaces would once have been worn by warriors and men of high status. Today, they are worn by men participating in initiation dances and other ceremonial performances, such as the “nelo” dance, where they are worn in pairs with one displayed on the chest of the dancer and one worn on the back.
The tortoiseshell overlay shows a series of fish and the shape of a stylised frigate bird. The latter plays an important role in the art and cosmology of Solomon Islands. As a hunter of the sea and sky, frigatebirds are seen to embody the qualities of a warrior as well as a guide to fishermen. For frigatebirds also herald the annual arrival of large schools of bonito fish, which play a vital role in the economic and ceremonial lives of Solomon Islanders.
Comparing literature
Heermann, Ingrid & Ulrich Menter, Schmuck der Südsee, München 1990, p. 83, ill. 29 https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/313708Notices
This object is subject to CITES. Please note that it can only be sent within the European Union. At the present time export in third countries is prohibited, respectively, export licenses in third countries for objects containing or made of protected materials are only granted under stringent conditions.