Beschreibung:

LEI NIHO PALAOA NECKLACE. Exceptional antique necklace (Lei Niho Palaoa) from the Hawaiian Islands. These important necklaces were a sign of prestige and dedicated exclusively to the nobility of the Hawaiian islands (known as "Ali 'i" or "Noho Ali'i"). These necklaces were specifically worn by those leaders (men and women) who during the monarchical era were part of the King's private council. Made from a single sperm whale tooth in the shape of a tongue, as a symbol of vitality and spiritual strength (mana). Ex english collection. A similar example can be seen in the museum of New Zeland "Te Papa Tongarewa" , donated by the Oldman collection. Hawaii, 19th Century