Grand Vestibule: The British Monarchy and the World
The Grand Vestibule at Windsor Castle reflects interaction between the monarchy and the wider world
Tabua
1800 - 1953RCIN 74624
Queen Elizabeth II visited Fiji five times, both as a crown colony and, since 1970, as an independent member of the Commonwealth. A key element of all such visits is the presentation of gifts, which often reflect local craftsmanship in order to celebrate the diversity of the Commonwealth’s member states.
In Fiji, teeth are collected from the lower jaws of beached whales. Since whale beachings are a relatively rare occurrence, the teeth are highly prized. In some cases they are rubbed with coconut oil and turmeric or smoked to turn them a rich tobacco colour. When threaded on a cord, they are known as tabua, and play an important role in ceremonies of marriage, mourning and peace-making. Rather than being worn, they are exchanged by participants while formal speeches are made. They are also used by high-ranking chiefs to welcome guests on state occasions.
These two tabua were presented to Queen Elizabeth II by Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba during her official visit to Fiji, 17–19 December 1953.
