Descriptions

The carving of the human form in wood and decorating it with shell inlay (Nautilus pompilius) is a characteristic of Solomon Island art. This visual art thrives today and is made for both the domestic and export markets. Art is tied to the everyday and ceremonial life of the people and Islanders make no distinction between a work of art and a functional artefact; all items had a social, economic or religious function. The carving illustrates a link with either the ancestors or living people.




This object is on display at RAMM in the World Cultures gallery.