Pig's-tooth Ornament, Melanesia, Vanuatu
Body ornament made from a pig’s tusk, which grows from the lower incisors.
To achieve this characteristic circular shape, the animal’s upper incisors were deliberately broken; unable to feed itself, the pig then had to be fed by the women of the group. These pigs with curved teeth acquired great symbolic and ceremonial value. Sacrificed during major events, their tusks were used primarily to make body ornaments.
A comparable object is held in the collections of the Musée du quai Branly under inventory number 72.1953.1.17
Vanuatu, 20th century.
In very good condition; the tip of the tusk was polished in the past.
Period: 20th century
Style: Tribal Art
Condition: Excellent condition
Width: 10,5 cm
Reference (ID): 1853386
Availability: In stock
