Solomon Islands, island of Ranongga
Circa 1930
Spiny oyster shell, wood
Length: 18–19 in (45.7–48.3 cm)
Provenance: Gary Seering, Aiea, Hawaii
Shell money of the Solomon Islands functioned as both currency and ceremonial adornment, with specific forms tied to particular islands and exchange networks. On Ranongga, bakhia necklaces were among the most labor-intensive objects produced, their value inseparable from the time and skill required to make them. Pieces of this type circulated through bride price transactions, mortuary feasts, and inter-island trade across the Western Solomons.
Each disc was individually hand-drilled from spiny oyster shell, a process requiring sustained precision to achieve the consistent sizing and banding visible across the full length of this example. The alternating dark and light patterning is achieved through the natural variation of the shell material rather than dye or treatment. The result is a textile-like density of surface that speaks directly to the maker's command of the medium.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Solomon Islands, island of Ranongga
Circa 1930
Spiny oyster shell, wood
Length: 18–19 in (45.7–48.3 cm)
Provenance: Gary Seering, Aiea, Hawaii
Shell money of the Solomon Islands functioned as both currency and ceremonial adornment, with specific forms tied to particular islands and exchange networks. On Ranongga, bakhia necklaces were among the most labor-intensive objects produced, their value inseparable from the time and skill required to make them. Pieces of this type circulated through bride price transactions, mortuary feasts, and inter-island trade across the Western Solomons.
Each disc was individually hand-drilled from spiny oyster shell, a process requiring sustained precision to achieve the consistent sizing and banding visible across the full length of this example. The alternating dark and light patterning is achieved through the natural variation of the shell material rather than dye or treatment. The result is a textile-like density of surface that speaks directly to the maker's command of the medium.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
