Originally offered at $1,200...

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, Sepik River region, ca. 19th century CE. A lovely example of a prestigious ornament worn in traditional Papuan and other Oceanic societies, this is a collar-like necklace made from finely woven fibers and cascading tiers of dog teeth, each highly polished and turned so that its tip points outward. The woven fiber creates a thick, red-brown band that wraps around the neck and ties at the back. Imagine how each individual tooth would have caught the light when shaken, and the slight clacking noise that all the teeth would have made as the wearer moved. Dog teeth ornaments like this one signified the social rank, sanctity, and wealth of the people who wore them. Size: 11.5" W x 3.45" H (29.2 cm x 8.8 cm); 6.75" H (17.1 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-Michael Evans collection, New Zealand, 2012

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#154564

All teeth appear to be present. Overall in really nice condition with some small frays to the fiber backing. Rich patina on all teeth.