Oceania, Polynesia, Tahiti, Society Islands, ca. 19th century CE. This is a gorgeous collection of over a hundred shells that are pierced for threading as a traditional shell hei necklace or crown. The shells are a type of snail shell with a pointed spire, ranging from pale yellow and white with orange tips. The shells are pierced through the chamber opening and then threaded together on modern cotton threads - but traditionally would be strung on coconut fibers. They are pleasingly arranged with rows of 5 shells to create the thick chain. Polynesian societies had hereditary leaders known as "ali'i" who ruled a society and personal ornaments were crucial to distinguish roles in this society. Adornments such as shell necklaces known as "hei" (Tahitian name for lei) and crowns indicated the highest rank. Size (hei): 11" Diameter x 1.25" W (27.9 cm x 3.2 cm); 12.75" H (32.4 cm) on included custom stand; (average shell): 0.65" L x 0.25" W (1.7 cm x 0.6 cm)
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, acquired from 1995 to 2010
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#168525
Condition
Minor nicks to spires on shells, but otherwise very good. Shells are strung on modern threads. Necklace is professionally mounted on an acrylic stand and is not recommended for wearing.