Tabua

human history

Tabua. Tooth from a tovuto (sperm whale). An iyau (treasure) of high cultural value to Fijians. Still in natural, unworked condition (not polished or ground smooth). The tabua is naturally rounded at its tip and ovoid in cross section. The tabua is ovoid in cross section. The outer surface of the tabua is a yellow-brown colour, grainy and rough to the touch although smoother at the tip. No polish. Natural grooves run two-thirds of the length of the tabua. A narrow inner cavity at the base of the tabua with natural nodes of enamel inside.

Accession number: 1956.183.5 Last Update: 21 Sept 2018
Other Name

Whale tooth (English)

Place
Fiji
Accession Number

1956.183.5

Accession Date

06 Nov 1956

Other Id

none (ethnology)

Department

Pacific

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Tabua, 1956.183.5, Photographed by Andrew Hales, digital, 28 Jul 2017, Cultural Permissions Apply Cultural Permissions Apply
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