This carving recreates the ancient story of Okuo, a tribal ancestor, who was killed by a shark. This legend is often carved into small caskets to hold the bones of dead heroes in the custom house.
The piece is carved from a light wood (alstonia scholaris) and darkened with a mixture of charcoal and parinarium nut paste, and inlaid with mother of pearl.
Acquired from the Solomon Islands National Museum in Honiara, Guadalcanal.
20.5"L x 2"W x 5.25"H