TEVAU ceremonial coinage - Santa Cruz Island, Solomon Islands

Tevau, or feather money, is made from an assemblage of red feathers from the honey-eater bird (Myzomela cardinalis), natural fibers, and amulets made of seeds and shells. The Tevau were prestigious objects exchanged during dignitaries' weddings or as compensation to end a conflict. They were preserved in palm leaves (ivory leaves).

Condition: Very good
Date: Late 19th - early 20th century

Provenance:
- Acquired in situ by the Ethnographic Museum of Honiara, Guadalcanal
- Collection of Mr. Gastine
- Collection of Mr. Vinatier