Solomon Islands, ebony hardwood “nguzu nguzu” figure

 
Solomon Islands, ebony hardwood “nguzu nguzu” figure
 
Material and method: Carved hardwood, appears to be a kind of ebony; inlaid mother of pearl.
 
Age: The quality of the wood used suggests this piece was probably made in or before the 1970’s.
 
Dimensions: 17 cm H x 10 cm W
 
Stock no: F308
 
Comments: 
“Nguzu nguzu” was originally the form of a canoe prow ornament, representing “kesoko”, a supernatural being that gives protection during voyages and is associated with head hunting, net and bonito fishing. Its dog like features reference the mythological dog that appeared in the heroic epoch and taught them all they know.
The Nguzu nguzu has become synonymous with the Solomon Islands and hence its popularity in wood carvings.
This kind of item would have been made to sell to visitors.
An attachment has been added to the back so that it can be mounted on the wall.
 
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