Tabua

human history

Tabua. A ceremonial whale's tooth with a hole drilled at its tip and base areas for suspension. An iyau (treasure) of high cultural value to Fijians. Sourced from a tovuto (sperm whale), the tabua is long and curved. Ovoid in cross section. The outer surface of the tabua is highly polished and a light cream colour. Several fine scratches and brown spotted marks on the tabua's surface.

Nama tāpiringa: 1925.146 Whakahounga o Mua: 5 Jul 2019
Ingoa Kē

Whale tooth (English)

Wāhi
Fiji
Accession Number

1925.146

Rā Tāpiringa

06 Mar 1925

Tohu Tuakiri Kē

14157 (ethnology)

Wāhanga

Pacific

Uiuitia Tirohanga API
7 Mātātuhi
Tabua, 1925.146, 14157, Photographed by Andrew Hales, digital, 27 Jul 2017, Cultural Permissions Apply
Tabua, 1925.146, 14157, Photographed by Andrew Hales, digital, 27 Jul 2017, Cultural Permissions Apply Cultural Permissions Apply
Tirohia ngā pikitia ( 7)