Necklace (lei niho palaoa), c. 1800-1850, 26 3/4 x 3 x 4 7/8 in. ( x x cm), Human hair, walrus ivory, plant fibers, United States, 19th century, Necklaces like this one were treasured objects in traditional Hawaiian society, worn by both men and women, and preserved among families for generations. The hook-shaped pendant is carved of ivory, very rare until brought to the islands by trade in the early nineteenth century. Its graceful curving form holds a number of symbolic associations, including connections with fishhooks, chiefly authority, and the gods.

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Photo credit: © Penta Springs / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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