Pig Tusk Currency Vanuatu Oceania Art Premier

Rare "ALA" stage More than a turn and a half,
 aligned in its growth
Long 41.5 cm
Diameter 10 cm
Inner diameter 6 cm

These tusks are used as currency.
These ornaments are worn around the arms and as pectorals. They have great symbolic and sacred value.
The pig is at the heart of Vanuatu's traditional social system.

Raised with the aim of obtaining this rare tooth which is exchanged for a promotion of rank or to be initiated into the secrets or even to marry, to pay a debt...The rank system makes it possible to increase the power of the world of living and influence in that of the dead.
The person is authorized to wear the elements of adornment corresponding to his rank.

The curved Verrat tooth is one of the emblems of Vanuatu. It appears on its national flag