Feather Currency (tevau) c. 19th century

This feather currency, or tevau, was made by an anonymous artist using natural materials and traditional craft techniques. It comprises thousands of red feathers intricately woven onto a fiber core, and is adorned with delicate shell ornaments. Consider how this object would have been made. The feathers would have been carefully gathered, sorted, and then painstakingly attached to the core. The process is laborious, involving countless hours of skilled handwork. The value of this currency isn't just symbolic; it reflects the immense amount of time and effort invested in its creation. The tevau also speaks to the central role of gifting in many cultures. It embodies a whole system of social exchange, reflecting a highly developed understanding of value. The meticulous craftsmanship elevates the tevau beyond mere utility, transforming it into an object of cultural and aesthetic significance. Understanding the labor and materials involved challenges the traditional distinction between art and craft.