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Two Wood and Shark Tooth Daggers.
Wood, fibre, shark tooth.
Gilbert Islands, Micronesia.
Early 19th Century.
PROVENANCE:
Ex Private UK collection.
Ex Private collection.
The Gilbert Islands lie in the western Pacific and are geographically part of Micronesia. The Islands have been under continuous British rule since the 18th century.
Before European interference and the onslaught of introduced diseases Micronesia was heavily populated and fighting was common. On the Gilbert Islands combat was so frequent, elaborate offensive and defensive equipment was extensively manufactured.
Sharks, teeth were a useful substitute for the flakiness of stone, and coconut fibre cordage, both twisted and plaited, was expertly made and used in great numbers on weapons each individually pierced and sewn into grooves along the sides of daggers and spears. To counteract the lacerating effect of these weapons thick plaited coir armour was developed in the Gilberts composed of a rigid cuirass with high collar and separate trouser and sleeve sections. A spiky fish skin helmet completed the outfit.
Dimensions
50.5cm long - 19¾ ins long and 52cm long - 20½ ins longThe BADA Standard
- Since 1918, BADA has been the leading association for the antiques and fine art trade
- Members are elected for their knowledge, integrity and quality of stock
- Our clients are protected by BADA’s code of conduct
- Our dealers’ membership is reviewed and renewed annually
- Bada.org is a non-profit site: clients deal directly with members and they pay no hidden fees
