Description:

Polynesia, Hawaiian Islands, ca. 18th to 19th century CE. Wow! An incredibly rare example of a niho 'oki, a Hawaiian knife made from wood with two embedded shark teeth that are laced in place using woven sennit. The wooden handle is club-shaped, with a long, thin end that abruptly curves at a near ninety degree angle and broadens into a semi-circular upper end that mirrors the shape of the teeth themselves. The two shark's teeth point outward, their serrated edges ready to slice. Size: 5.7" W x 2.5" H (14.5 cm x 6.4 cm); 4.1" H (10.4 cm) on included custom stand.

Weapons with embedded shark teeth were a staple of Polynesian life, especially in Hawaii. The niho 'oki, made with one or two shark's teeth, was a type of utility knife, used for things like preparing kapa, a type of handmade paper, and cutting thin woven cord.

See another at the Museum of New Zealand (OL000559).

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex Abe Rosman collection, New York City, New York, USA, 1960 to 2000

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#154552

  • Condition: The wood is weathered commensurate with age with some small chips and losses and a rich patina. The teeth and fiber used to connect them are in great condition with rich patina on the teeth.

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May 7, 2020 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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