Prior to the end of the nineteenth century, headhunting was considered by the Solomon Islanders as a necessary part of life that ensured the health and well-being of their community. Headhunting raids would utilize large, plank-built war canoes with crescent-shaped prows and sterns(Tomoko). Anthropomorphic canoe prow ornaments were standard features of the canoes. Positioned at the waterline of the vessel, these ornaments represented mythological spirits whose function was to ward off danger and ensure smooth seas. They were typically painted black and had shell-inlay designs depicting the face-painting designs used by warriors. These figures were also carved with protruding mouths, artificially elongated earlobes (a cosmetic practice in this region). These figures are commonly known by the Roviana name «NguzuNguzu», although they are figured differently on different islands of the Solomons.
In addition: the «NguzuNguzu» were attached to the «Tomoko» war canoe. The «NguzuNguzu» also gave a clue as to the intentions of the warriors in the canoe: if the NguzuNguzu is holding a bird(to see the stamp), the visitors are peaceful. If the NguzuNguzu is holding a human head(to see the foto), this is a true war canoe. Head hunting is on the agenda!
Canoe paddles were also decorated with low-relief anthropomorphic figures, known as kokorra. For more details about canoe Tomoko see: viewtopic.php?f=2&t=10669
Solomon Islands 1976;35c;45c;SG303;304.
Source:http://blog.tepapa.govt.nz/2013/12/17/c ... n-islands/