Canoe Prow Ornament (
nguzu-nguzu), 20th century
Solomon Islands, Melanesia
Wood, shell and paint; 13 x 7 in.
Gift of Dwight V. Strong
84.37.12
Early Solomon Islanders were noted for their aggressive attacks on neighboring islands and head-hunting activities. Expeditions to neighboring islands were carried out in large
highly decorated canoes capable of holding several dozen warriors at once. Ornaments with human features called
nguzu-nguzu, were attached to the tall prow (front most part) of the canoe just above the waterline. Generally believed to represent spirits who provided protection and guaranteed the success of expeditions, it has also been suggested that the pronounced heads were intended to strike fear of decapitation into enemies.
Traces of the black paint that once covered the prow ornament pictured here is still visible. Inlaid iridescent shell mimicking the design of ceremonial face paint or tattoo marks, provides an element of contrast and beauty. Pierced elongated earlobes and headwear (possibly a hairstyle) are also decorated with shells. The sloping of the figure’s face and exaggerated features are characteristics of
nguzu-nguzu. The figure’s forward extending arms end in large hands providing a resting place for the chin while providing structural strength to the overall carving.
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