condensed discuss document expanded export feedback print share remove reset document_white enquire_white export_white report_white

Collections Online

Collections record

discuss document export feedback print share gallery-landscape xml

Helu

human history
  • Other Name

    Helu tu'aniu

    Comb

  • Description

    Helu. Comb. Helu (comb) or helu tu'aniu (coconut midrib comb) as they are commonly referred to, are ornamental combs which are worn by females in Tonga. They are a popular personal adornment amongst Tongan women and girls alike, and rose to popularity in the 18th century. Helu are primarily made from tu'aniu (coconut midrib), bound with pulu'i niu (coconut husk) and decorated with beads.

    Helu can also be made from other materials such as wood and tortoise shell and are ornately carved. This helu is triangular in shape with 22 midribs, it is lashed with pulu'i niu in a decorative manner and also has blue and white beading at the top as an extra embellishment.

  • Place
    [Tonga]/Pacific
  • Accession Number
    1935.119
  • Accession Date
    1935
  • Other Id

    21923.1 (ethnology)

  • Department

    Pacific

comb, 1935.119, 21923.1, Cultural Permissions Apply

Images and documents

Images

  • comb, 1935.119, 21923.1, Cultural Permissions Apply
  • comb, 1935.119, 21923.1, Cultural Permissions Apply
  • comb, 1935.119, 21923.1, Cultural Permissions Apply

Artefact

The development of the Auckland War Memorial Museum online collection is an ongoing process; updates, new images and records are added weekly. In some cases, records have yet to be confirmed by Museum staff, and there could be mistakes or omissions in the information provided.

The gift of curiosity

With unlimited free entry to all paid exhibitions, discounted event tickets and exclusive Member-only events, a Museum Membership is the gift that keeps on giving year-round.

SEE OPTIONS FROM $60

The gift of curiosity