Context (Related Documents)
Two catalogue cards attributed to Z read as follow:
Card 1, handwritten in black ink, reads, 'MĚRKĚTŌP. Broken - this was worn with sabagorar etc by brides. Merket op (face) " A měrkětōp proper was I believe the figure-head of a canoe like the dogai of the Western Islands" MS.' Card 2, typed, reads, 'Thin plate of turtleshell in form of curving point. Described by A.C.H. as follows: "A merketop was, I believe, the figurehead of a canoe, like the dogai of the Western Islands."' A small black and white photo attached on the back of the card. Date and photographer unknown.

Both without authoring dates.
Event Date
Author: maa

Context (References)
Moore's book is based upon research involving an examination of all Haddon material in British and Australian Museums.
Event Date
Author: maa

Description (Labels & Markings)
Accompanied by an old paper label, handwritten by A.C. Haddon, which notes "Fragment of a 'Měrkětōp' [sketch] this was worn on the back of a bride with 'Sabagorar' etc./ A Merketop proper, is I believe, the figurehead of a canoe like the Dorgai of the Western Islands. Mer (? Murray Islands) Torres Straits Feby. 1889."
Event Date 2/1889
Author: Rachel Hand

Context (Field collection)
Collected by Dr Alfred Cort Haddon in 1898.
Event Date 1898
Author: Guey-Mei Hsu

Context (References)
Haddon, A.C. et al (1908) 'Reports of the Cambridge Anthropological Expedition to Torres Straits: Vol. 6. Sociology, Magic and Religion of the Eastern Islanders'. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, p. 114
Event Date 1908
Author: Guey-Mei Hsu

Context (References)
Haddon, A.C. et al (1912) 'Reports of the Cambridge Anthropological Expedition to Torres Straits: Vol. 4, Arts and Crafts'. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, p. 48-49
Event Date 1912
Author: Rachel Hand

Context (Acquisition Details)
Given by Dr Haddon to the museum in 1920 (noted on card 1).
Event Date 1920
Author: Guey-Mei Hsu

Description (Physical description)
Merketop. Flat turtleshell pendant shaped like a crescent, with line pattern incised on one side surface. Broken on one end. Worn by married women only.
Event Date 14/5/2025
Author: Guey-Mei Hsu