Tattooing Equipment

Date1775-1850

MediumWood, coconut fibre, shell

DimensionsObject/Work: 180 x 125 mm

ClassificationsGrooming/cosmetic equipment

Terms

Object numberC03156

DescriptionVessel for storing tattooing instruments. Wood decorated with finely netted cord and pearl shell pieces. The lid is missing. The bottom of the vessel is open, perhaps serving as a strainer for the candlenut soot pigment used in the tattooing process. Said to be from the Friendly Islands and purchased in 1850. Polynesia.

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