Solomon Islands Dancing Shield

A beautiful example of a Solomon Island, shell inlaid, ceremonial shield displaying the incredible skill of intricately carved Mother-of Pearl  inlaid adornments detail. The standard of which is known only found in the Solomon Islands and is unparalleled by other Oceanic communities.

The pointed top of the shield leads down into an oblong shape with rounded base with the wooden handle centrally on the rear of the item.  From the Santa Isabel Island region of the Solomon Islands, these shields were appreciated as items of prestige and social status within the village communities and were used during cultural celebrations and rituals.

This stunning shield is edged with an outer continuous line of Mother-of-Pearl inlays parallel to a smaller sized inner row. The centre of the shield is dominated by the Mother-of-Pearl outline of an anthromorphic figure with raised hands, a headdress and lowered feet in the traditional cultural style. Other geometrical pattern designs also in Mother-of- Pearly, intricate inlaid pieces are also part of the Santa Isabel cultural designs. The resin surface finish with the dull patina to this specimen allows for the intricate inlaid art work to be the focal point of the shield.