Kapkap ornament
Life Story
This type of ornament is generally called ‘kapkap’, a term deriving from a New Ireland language which is now used widely by Europeans for Melanesian ornaments of this kind. They are usually worn as neck pendants on ceremonial occasions, but also function as valuables in local exchanges.
The white disc is ground from clam shell, while the filigree overlay is made from a thin piece of turtleshell. Both are pierced through the centre for suspension or attachment. Reichard (1933) illustratesa large selection of museum specimens.
Stephan Hooper, 1997
Entry taken from Robert and Lisa Sainsbury Collection, Vol. 2: Pacific, African and Native North American Art, edited by Steven Hooper (Yale University Press, 1997) p. 65.
Provenance
Donated to the Sainsbury Centre, University of East Anglia in 1973 as part of the original gift.
On display
Title/Description: Kapkap ornament
Born: 1900 c. - 1999 c.
Object Type: Pendant
Materials: Clam shell, Fibre, Hair, Metal, Turtle shell
Measurements: h. 53 x w. 53 x d. 5 mm
Accession Number: 514
Historic Period: 20th century
Production Place: New Ireland, Oceania, Pacific
Credit Line: Donated by Robert and Lisa Sainsbury, 1973
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