UNION ISLANDS CARVED WOOD BOX FROM TOKELAU

Mid-19th century. Oval form, 6" length. The body slightly tapered and the lid with integral carved lifting stud and raised medial bow tie form top mount with original twisted sennit suspension cord. Dark glossy patina and minor blemishes from use. Tokealu is a Polynesian Island group comprised of three coral atolls. It supports a population of less than 2000 inhabitants, thus, any artifact, is extremely rare. From our own collection, purchased at Christie's, London, Tribal Art Sale, March 26, 1985, lot 381 and the only such example we have ever seen on the market.