Santa Cruz Islander. <em>Ornament (Kapkap)</em>, 19th or early 20th century. Tridacna shell, tortoiseshell, fiber, 4 1/2 x 4 x 1 in. (11.4 x 10.2 x 2.5 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn Museum Collection, X1031. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, X1031_transp6138.jpg)

Ornament (Kapkap)

Artist:Santa Cruz Islander

Medium: Tridacna shell, tortoiseshell, fiber

Geograhical Locations:

Dates:19th or early 20th century

Dimensions: 4 1/2 x 4 x 1 in. (11.4 x 10.2 x 2.5 cm)

Collections:

Accession Number: X1031

Image: X1031_transp6138.jpg,

Catalogue Description:
Shell ornament (kapkap) is a breast or forehead ornament composed of a clam shell disk with a separate circular overlay of tortoiseshell that has been intricately carved with geometric forms in concentric bands. Through holes made in their centers, string passes holding the two pieces together. This particular piece is a clam shell disk on which is placed an intricately carved, circular piece of tortoiseshell (dia: 3 7/8 in.). Outer edge of tortoiseshell has small projections while center contains complex concentric bands of geometric designs including a band of alternating square and triangular shapes. Centers of both shell pieces are pierced. String passing through centers hold two pieces together. Condition is good. One outer projection missing and one piece on inner ring of design broken. Minor surface dirt and abrasions. Minor chipping.

Brooklyn Museum