Catalog: Vintage Arts: Regional Art: Oceanic: Weapons (1)

A very rare pair of hand guards or constructed from a course woven fibre each incorporating three rows of shark's teeth secured with a fine hand made string or cord. These 'gloves' were made on the Gilbert Islands (now Kiribati) probably during the first half of the 20th Century. Condition: excellent - the fibre is frayed in places but apparently no damages or losses. There is old dried mud or soil on the outer surface of each. Extended length: 40cm Finger loops: 4cm long. Back of hand 'guard': 11cm (4.25 inches) square.