Riji

Riji are mother of pearl shells, which are traditionally worn by male Aborigines in the north- west of Australia, in the area of present-day Broome. The word Riji comes from the language of the Bardi and is sometimes also called jakuli.

Use

Rijis be worn similar Ledenschurze to cover the shame. They are laced with a band of fibers on a belt and a belt around the waist. Traditionally, could only men who are initiated at the highest level, the Riji project.

Frequently Rijis are beritzt with sacred patterns that either the insignia of the tribe are, tell stories or have a different meaning. Rijis be associated because of their bright and shimmering surface with water, spiritual power and healing. Bardi compare the light reflected from the shells, with flashes of the rains and light that is reflected from the cheeks of the Rainbow Serpent, which is closely associated with water and rain.

One of the unique pattern that is used in the Kimberleys, is a nested pattern. The incised patterns are rubbed with a mixture of ocher and resin Spinifexgrases in the grooves and thus highlighted. Decorated and naked Perlmutschalen be used for rainmaking and other magical purposes.

Riji were very precious objects and inland were traded over long distances. They were found in Yuendumu in the desert, in south- eastern Arnhem Land, Queensland and South Australia. Often, the dishes were decorated along the trade route, so far away from the origin.

Artists produce even today Rijis, which can be seen in Broome. Some use older, sacred patterns, while others choose more modern designs.