Wicker shield

Unknown

Sköld av flätad rotang (generalkatalog).

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Details

Title: Wicker shield
Creator: Unknown
Location Created: Salomonöarna
Physical Dimensions: 22 cm, 126 cm
External Link: Link to source
Text till utställningen Avian Allies: This wicker shield, which features an oval or rounded top and base with a slightly contracted middle section along with the inclusion of fine wickerwork decorative motifs in black, was probably made in Guadalcanal or Nggela (Florida Islands). Shields produced in this area were traded or sold to other islands in the Solomons, particularly to the Western Solomon Islands, from where many were eventually collected. Other wicker shields of more elliptical shape, with pointed tops and bases, were probably made in Santa Isabel and similarly traded or sold to the Western Solomons. Decoratively, the shield has been divided into three sections through the inclusion of black fibre. In this example, the top and bottom decorative patterns feature stylized representations of the forked tail of the frigate bird. As with many other societies in the Pacific, the frigate bird was often associated with aggression and warfare and other male activities.

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