Solomon Islands Kapkap – Shell Headdress

The traditional "Kapkap" is made and used by men as a personal body adornment to either the head or chest in the Santa Cruz region of the Solomon Islands.

It is created from making of a thin round disc cut from a tridacna shell, which is rubbed down to a smooth surface.  A turtle shell is then skilfully carved to a traditional abstract design and secured on top of the white disc to create the very attractive "Kapkap".

The turtle shell design on this Kapkap depicts the frigate bird with three fish above it.  The frigate bird is revered as a bountiful hunter of fish therefore it is traditionally symbolic as a good omen for prosperity and wealth. The Kapkaps are only worn by men and vary in size. The larger the Kapkap is a sign that the man has a higher social status. The Chiefs wear the largest adornments.

Diameter; 7.5 in / 12 cm