lime gourd

Chiefs' lime gourd, covered with wax, embedded with dogs teeth, and hair.

A card in C.G. Seligmann's hand in the Documentation File reads: '5.87. Lime gourd covered with layer of gum (or wax?) in which are embedded the teeth of animals. This form of lime gourd is calEled FAONGA and is the insignium of chiefship of the tofua fa'a, the high chief who in each clan or local group of the Mekeo district of B.N.G. is head of the clubhouse, and performs the functions of official chief in feasts and ceremonies, not connected with war or sorcery. In haste, C.G.Seligmann' (AM 28/09/2011).

Collection Information

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