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Oceania, Papua New Guinea, Milne Bay Province, Massim culture, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A remarkable and ornate necklace adornment known as a Soulava or Bagi, made and worn by various island cultures in the "Kula ring," which was an exclusive gift exchange network. The vegetal cords are strung with carved beads made from shells such as pink spondylus, conch, and shimmering nacre, and the black pods are banana seeds. The long strands were worn by wrapping around the neck with the dangling ornament acting as a rattle. Wearing and gifting these adornments was a sign of great prestige- the shells and crafting together may have originated on another island- often traveling from island to island and changing ownership amongst those with status and wealth. Some gift pieces aquire names because they have completely cycled through the Kula ring exchange system, garnering distinction and fame! Size: 23" L x 10" W (58.4 cm x 25.4 cm); 25.25" H (64.1 cm) on included custom stand; largest dangling nacre piece: 3" Diameter (7.6 cm)

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, acquired from 2000 to 2010

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#180724

Some dangling nacre shells have been repaired and reattached with nylon cords the pendant. Fraying and wear to cords and chips to shell beads and seed pods. Probable old repairs by Massim people based on slight differences in cord fibers.