Batinivuaka

Ring-shaped boar tusk pendants, similar to those found throughout Melanesia, were popular male throat ornaments. They were formed from the tusks of tame boars which had the opposing canines pulled from the upper jaw so that the tusks, instead of grinding against them, kept growing along their natural curve, finally re-entering the lower jaw and forming an almost closed ring. When worn as pendants they were tied tight at the very base of the throat to stop them swinging about. The finely plaited string is adorned with tiny glass trade beads. Outside width of the ring: 11.5cm.