Fijian Cannibal Fork with Tapa Design

Carved from native hardwoods, these cannibal forks are carefully shaped and are decorated with intricate detailing. They will definitely be a topic of conversation! Cannibal forks, or “iculanibokola”, were used by tribal attendants to feed the chiefs and tribal leaders during ritual feasts as these individuals were considered to be too holy to touch food. It was a cultural taboo for holy individuals to touch food with their own hands. Fiji has a cannibal past and during warrior ceremonies, the chiefs and tribal leaders participated in feasting on captured enemies. Due to the significance of these events, these forks were a way to show influence and power. The more decorated and elaborate, the higher status the owner of the fork had. They display beautifully on their own or in a set made with varying designs. Made in Fiji.