On loan to The Met The Met accepts temporary loans of art both for short-term exhibitions and for long-term display in its galleries.
Combs (helu)
Not on view
Throughout Polynesia, the head is understood to be the seat of an individual’s spiritual power (mana) and a potent site that connects the body with the ancestors. Made from the stems of the coconut leaflet, these comb-like ornaments were used to adorn the head and hair. Neatly tied together with fine strands of coconut fiber, they display intricate designs that are skillfully executed with finely plaited fiber and imported glass beads.
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