Necklace Currency
ClassificationsClothing and Adornments-neck ornaments
Datemid 19th - early 20th Century
Made AtPapua New Guinea
Collection SiteSydney, New South Wales, Australia, Australia
MediumShell, pig tails, cocoons, fiber and seed pods
Dimensions28 × 7 × 1 1/8 in. (71.1 × 17.8 × 2.9 cm)
Credit LineThe George Stanley Lodin Collection
Object number2015.17.30
DescriptionThis necklace was created and worn to show the great wealth and prestige of its owner. Shell disc beads are used as currency in various parts of Oceania. They were traded throughout the region as well. The double strands of such beads would themselves be valuable; however the pigs’ tails that hang at the back of this necklace add even more value to the necklace. Pigs were an important part of Papua New Guinea’s economy. They were often traded and parts of their bodies, such as their tails and circular tusks, were retained and used as decorative status items. Tails were frequently used as extra adornments for necklaces, aprons and other items. When this particular necklace was worn, the tails would fall at the back of the wearer. When the wearer would move, the tails would move and knock against each other and the small seed beads also present on this part of the necklace.On View
Not on view
mid 19th - early 20th Century
mid 20th Century
early to mid 20th Century
mid 20th Century