On the western Solomon Islands, such shell platters were produced until the first third of the 20th century. For 3 different uses: 1: Large platters with numerous rows of rings, as well as dancing or seated silhouettes of people in between. These large-sized platters were called ‘Barava’ and symbolised the claim to land of a specific group (tribe or clan). 2: Somewhat smaller shell platters, with a thick ring below and seated silhouettes of people (back to back) were simply a traditional form of currency until the early 20th century (‘Kastom money’). On the Choiseul Island this shell money was called ‘Zaru’, on other islands ‘Bokolo’ or ‘Dafi’. This ‘money’ played an important role in wedding preparations as ‘bridewealth’ and in local bartering. 3: Smaller forms of shell platters, with or without rings, were hung as ornaments on the small, triangular ‘skull shrines’ in which the skulls of famous chiefs or clan-founders were preserved. The material from which these platters were made, is comprised of the shells of giant clams (Tridacna gigas). And yet not from fresh clams found on the beach or pulled from the sea, but rather from petrified, fossilised clam shells, such as those found in ‘secret’ stone quarries on the Solomon Islands. This partly or entirely petrified material was especially valued, polished into platters and drilled with simple bow drills. Next, these holes were laboriously connected ('sawed’) to the desired shapes and rings by means of plant fibres, sand and water. The present object belongs to the second category: A piece of ‘Zaru’ shell money. Two figures sit back to back on a thick, large ring (symbolising wealth). In between is a smaller ring and a dancing or crouching figure upon it. Minor age-related damage (cracks on top and on the back). H: 22 cm, W: 10 cm, thickness: 2 cm (ring below). 19th century, early 20th century. (ME)

Provenance: French private collection.

Literature: 'Melanesien. Schwarze Inseln der Südsee', catalogue, Rautenstrauch Joest Museum, Cologne, ill. 425