Barava with hornbill - Solomon Islands

Description

Rare Barava from the Solomon Islands with stylised hornbill - a museum-worthy masterpiece that instantly touches the hearts of collectors. This impressive object is carved from fossil shell of the giant clam (Tridacna gigas). The ring shape features a fully stylised hornbill prancing on top, a rare detail that enhances its ceremonial value.

Origin & meaning
This object is from the collection of Koos Knol. Baravas were traditionally kept in men's houses and used in rituals around tribal identity, land ownership and commemoration of ancestors. The ring symbolised territory and continuity, while the hornbill - fully rendered in stylised form - stood for wisdom, protection and the connection between heaven and earth. Similar specimens with hornbill motifs are in museum collections and have been documented by Havaiki Art and Oceanic Arts Australia, among others.

Dimensions
Height 20 cm
Ring diameter 14.5 cm
Depth 3.5 cm
Weight approx. 1 kg

A museum collector's item from Oceania whose symbolism and design make it a rare find for serious collectors.

Product photographs show the object on offer exactly as photographed. Any interior images are AI-generated impressions, included solely to illustrate scale and presentation.