Tesori

This article focuses on the demands/suggestions made in 2009 by Kanak women upon the return of the Hadfield’s collection of objects, in particular pandanus mats and bags. This contribution aims to engage in the dialogue be- tween heritage processes in Oceania and the Italian debate on the same themes. Fieldwork conducted in Lifou (Kanaky, New Caledonia) allows the author to realize the interest of the elderly to recall the stories related to the mats, thick objects that continue to bring out memories of the past and trigger intense emotions because they do not cease to represent a women ́s richesse , a treasure linked to the knowledge and practices of female ancestors. The rediscovered mats arouse a strong sense of connection with the women ́s cultural past and set in motion narra- tives in which they want to be protagonists, giving shape to an informal heritage community.