Ritual staff (to’o)

18th century

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

No exchange with the gods was possible without the presentation of sacrificial pigs. This may explain their prevalence as a motif on ritual objects such as this ceremonial staff (to’o). With their distinctive snouts pointing downward and tails raised high, they create arched crescents—a central design element of Polynesian ritual artifacts. Their sheer number reinforces that reciprocity with the gods was crucial to ritual practice and to ensuring vitality and prosperity.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

Title: Ritual staff (to’o)
Date: 18th century
Geography: Polynesia, Rurutu, Austral Islands
Medium: Wood
Dimensions: L. 21 5/8 in. (55 cm)
Classification: Wood-Sculpture
Credit Line: The Menil Collection, Houston
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing