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Shell Plaque (Barava), mid to late 20th Century
Solomon Islands, Melanesia
Shell; 9 3/4 × 3 1…
Plaque (Barava)
Shell Plaque (Barava), mid to late 20th Century
Solomon Islands, Melanesia
Shell; 9 3/4 × 3 1…
Shell Plaque (Barava), mid to late 20th Century Solomon Islands, Melanesia Shell; 9 3/4 × 3 1/2 × 3/4 in. 2018.13.38 Gift of Anne and Long Shung Shih

Plaque (Barava)

ClassificationsSculpture-plaques
Datemid to late 20th Century
Made AtSolomon Islands
MediumShell
Dimensions9 3/4 × 3 1/2 × 3/4 in. (24.8 × 8.9 × 1.9 cm)
Credit LineGift of Anne and Long Shung Shih
Object number2018.13.38
DescriptionThis is a barava, an ornamental plaque that serves as a symbol of wealth and prestige in life and the afterlife. In some occassions it acts as a deed of land. The chief owns it and can claim title to the land of the village. However, if stolen by an opposing tribe the transfer does not constitute a transfer of title. Generally barava are not exchanged. They are either kept at home where they are a family heirloom, worn as an amulet, or placed in a skull hut or grave. To be created, a tridacna shell is cut into a smaller section. Then holes are drilled through and widened with vines and a mixture of coarse sand and water. It is a tedious process and can take about six years. The craft has been mostly forgotten in recent years due to its precise and time consuming nature.
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Plaque (Barava), mid to late 20th Century
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