Rere Sword Kiribati Island Shark Teeth Micronesia...

A "rere" sword is a traditional weapon from the Kiribati Islands, also known as the Gilbert Islands. It is a short sword, made of hardwood and decorated with shark teeth attached to the cutting edges by banana fibers. These swords were used in ritual combat and as symbols of warrior status. The hardwood, probably pandanus, is 79 cm long and bears a row of 22 shark teeth on each side, which were intended to inflict severe injuries. An object from the early 20th century that has lost four teeth. An identical model is on display at the New Caledonia Museum... it's a bit far away... I'm taking the liberty of pasting and copying from Tessier and Sarou (Drouot): Bottom of form Top of form Bottom of form 3000 - 4000 EUR Sword. Kiribati, Micronesia - Lot 65 Sword. Kiribati, Micronesia Wood, fibers and shark teeth. Height: 70 centimeters. Circa: 19th century. Bibliography: Océanic art. Meyer Related item: See No. 160 of the Neret minet sale of October 25, 2002 Exhibition: Highlights of Drouot Montaigne Its wooden body rises towards the sky, adorned with two rows of shark teeth. This extremely dangerous weapon accompanied the wearing of armor made of braided coconut fibers in order to protect against the sharp ornaments of these same swords. Each shark tooth is meticulously pierced in its center for mounting. It is in fact a true jewel of the Kiribati war industry which thus responded to the intra-ethnic struggles which shook this society.