Solomons Staff

13. A finely carved chief’s staff collected on the Eastern coast of Bougainville by James Murray Joyes who lived in New Guinea since 1921 and owned two plantations Iwi and Kekere from 1927 onwards. The staff is typical of early works from the Solomon Islands and made and collected at a time when Bougainville was part of the Solomons unlike today where it is New Guinea. The inset of pearl shell for eyes give a striking contrast against the darkened patina. A serpent wraps itself around the shaft finishing with the head of the snake leading up the back of the head. The side of the shaft has the typical ZZZZZ engraving which canoe prows from the Solomons display often infilled with pearl shell. The surface shows a rich, deep brown patina with areas of wear and handling there is fine engraving to the face on the forehead and cheeks and there are remains of a red pigment in the carving. Such staffs were important emblems of authority and status carried by chiefs or high-ranking individuals during ceremonies and community gatherings. It measures 101cm.