Details of mahudano'e ohu'o suhine- pig's tusk and plant seed necklaces

Catalog Number : 28161
Size : 123cm x 88cm
Medium : natural pigments on nioge (barkcloth)
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Evelyn has painted the design of the pig's tusk and plant seed necklace, mahudano'e ohu'o suhine. Pig's tusks are the traditional form of wealth for Omie tribespeople and are often used for bridesprice. During ceremonies, rituals and dancing pig's tusk necklaces are worn by men and sometimes, although very rarely, by high-ranking women elders. The pig's tusks have mouthpieces which male dancers bite, displaying the object to make themselves look like fierce warriors. In the time of the ancestors when tribal conflicts, village raids and retribution were an everyday part of life, no doubt this would have served a very important purpose.