Description:

Polynesia, Solomon Islands, Santa Cruz, Ontong-Java Atoll, ca. 19th century CE. A hand-made wooden shark hook, also known as a Ruvettus hook, a large trident-like tool used to catch bottom-dwelling species. The center spike is pointed, its tip wrapped in woven sennit and slightly barbed; the other two spikes curve inward at sharp angles. The three spikes join at the central part of the hook, which narrows in several tiers to a sharp lower point. A long barb is displayed to the central spike with further woven sennit wrapping its length. This style of hook is widely distributed throughout Polynesia. Size: 9.05" W x 20.45" H (23 cm x 51.9 cm); 24.25" H (61.6 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-Joe Gerena collection, 2002

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#154545

  • Condition: One of the side spikes is reattached. The wood is lightly weathered overall with some shallow stress fractures, possibly from use. Fiber is in very nice condition with very light fraying.

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September 10, 2020 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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