The Trobriands have a relatively uniform temperature of 70-80 degrees Farenheit year-round, with a rainy season lasting from November to April. Geologically, the islands are primarily coral reefs, with some isolated volcanic and coral islands, the soils of which are excellent for agriculture, a fact not lost on the islanders. The islands' inhabitants had a long history of contact with other Melanesians, specifically with the Massim peoples to the East, with whom they were often at war. Contact with the Europeans changed relations between the islands, introducing trade and warfare with the neighboring island groups, including the Amphlett and Dobu Islands as well as the islands to the southwest, in the Louisiade Archipelago. Previous page   |   Next page   |   Introduction Club Trobriand Islands Wood, Lime L: 35" Click photo for detail of carving
			© 1997 Lewis/Wara Gallery.