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TABUA BUSINESS: RE-CIRCULATION OF WHALE TEETH

TABUA BUSINESS: RE-CIRCULATION OF WHALE TEETH 2026

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The document discusses the contemporary trade and cultural significance of whale teeth (tabua) and cow bones in Tonga and Fiji. It highlights how Tongan craftsmen import whale teeth from Fiji and cow bones from New Zealand to create artworks for sale across the Pacific. The article explores the historical context of tabua as sacred ceremonial gifts in Fiji, the illegal trade of these items, and the evolving practices surrounding their use in art. It raises questions about the cultural identity linked to these materials and examines the dynamics of their circulation between Tonga and Fiji.

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Proceed to the sections related to whale teeth sourcing and usage. Provide detailed descriptions of your practices, including any relevant dates and locations.
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What is the whale teeth currency in Fiji?

A tabua (Fijian: [tɑmˈbuə]) is a polished tooth of a whale that is an important cultural item in Fijian society. They were traditionally given as gifts for atonement or esteem (called sevusevu), and were important in negotiations between rival chiefs.

What is the currency of whale teeth?

Lockerbys text offers one of the earliest references to the use of whale teeth in Fiji as tabuavaluable exchange items, currency-like in their capacity to store value, secure trade, and symbolize wealth.

Is it legal to own whale ivory?

Four states have specific laws banning certain transfers of ivory or rhinoceros horn: California, New Jersey, New York, and Washington. The first three states enacted their laws legislatively. Washingtons voters approved their states law during their 2015 election.

What is the significance of gifting tabua whale tooth in Fiji?

The gifting of tabua was traditionally a great ceremonial event in Fiji. They were given as offerings for war or peace, as tokens to symbolise marriage or as payment of bride price. In some cases tabua were even presented in exchange for the taking of a life.

What is whale tooth ivory used for?

Whale teeth and bones were a highly variable medium, used to produce both practical pieces, such as hand tools, toys and kitchen utensils, and highly decorative pieces, which were purely ornamental. The designs on the pieces varied greatly as well, though they often had whaling scenes on them.

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What is whale ivory used for?

Due to its porous and malleable nature, it can be used to craft a number of items. These might be everyday objects such as tools, jugs, and tableware. However, ivory is most often used as a status symbol and is therefore reserved for luxury goods rather than necessities.

TABUA BUSINESS: RE-CIRCULATION OF WHALE TEETH 2026

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What is the whale teeth currency in Fiji?

What is the currency of whale teeth?

Is it legal to own whale ivory?

What is the significance of gifting tabua whale tooth in Fiji?

What is whale tooth ivory used for?

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What is whale ivory used for?

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