FIJI ISLANDS — LATE 19TH — EARLY 20TH CENTURY - Lot 115

Lot n° 115
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Estimation :
1500 - 2000 EUR
FIJI ISLANDS — LATE 19TH — EARLY 20TH CENTURY - Lot 115
FIJI ISLANDS — LATE 19TH — EARLY 20TH CENTURY Rare, prestigious chief’s necklace. Known as “Wasekaseka” (or “waseisei”), it consists of 14 “teeth,” ranging from 14 cm to 18 cm in length, carved from the teeth of a sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus). They are strung on modern cotton thread and separated by thin bone washers. Light patina // conical drill holes // Length: 38 cm. During the 19th century, the whaling industry in the Pacific, fueled by Euro-American demand, popularized objects carved from the abundant marine ivory. The abundance of this magnificent material fostered the creation of jewelry for local populations or for export. For a similar example and more information, see item no. OL002207 on the New Zealand Museum website. Expert: Cédric Le Dauphin Sold following a frenzied bidding war
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