item details
NameAfter ear piercing ceremony, Alofi, Niue
ProductionGlenn Jowitt; photographer; 1982; Alofi
Classificationcolour photographs, inkjet prints, works of art, documentary photographs
Materialsink, paper
Materials Summarycolour photograph, inkjet print
Techniquescolour photography
DimensionsImage: 389mm (width), 262mm (height)
Registration NumberO.041129
Credit linePurchased 2012
Overview
A young girl in Niue smiles after having her ears pierced, a crown of money from her family and community adorning her head.
In Niuean society, the transition to adulthood is marked by an ear-piercing ceremony for girls and a haircutting ceremony for boys. Gifts of money and food, such as taro, fish, and pigs, are given to offset the cost of the ceremony and provide for the young person’s future.