Antique TRIBAL FIJIAN Native WOOD Hand Carved 15.25" Cannibal FORK Iculanbokola

Description

Vintage TRIBAL FIJIAN Native WOOD Hand Carved 15.25" Cannibal FORK Iculanbokola - Oceanic / Polynesian  .
The fork, or iculanibokola, was used by attendants during ritual feasts to feed individuals considered too holy to touch food.
The influence of Christianity ended cannibalism in Fiji by the close of the 19th century, These were purported to allow the user to get to the soft part of the inner parts - (of their enemies) .also known as ai cula ni bokola
These forks arose for several reasons. First is a cultural taboo that prohibits chiefs and priests from touching food with their hands. Common Fijian's generally did not use utensils until Europeanization. One of the most important ceremonies a chieftain participated in was the devouring of their or the tribes enemy. Combining the significance of the event and the inability to use their hands the chiefs needed a way to participate-hence the development OF the cannibal fork.
Forks also became a way to show power and influence. The fancier more elaborate the fork, the higher status the owner had.
We received this from indiginious Tribal Members we became friends on one of our long work trips abroad -- who later came to visit & stayed a few weeks, they brought this as their gift. (they actually brought us 3 gifts you can see them in the last picture)  Luckily they considered us their Friends!!!
we have had this for 25 years.  a Lot of deep intricate carving on this long Fork!!! also there is a black ball inside the decorative cage.  Love it.
measures 15.25" tip to tip