Trobriand Islands, PNG, Kula Canoe Prow #1987.01.090

This splashboard (lagim) and prow (tabuya) set is from an ocean going Kula ceremonial canoe from the Trobriand Islands of Papua New Guinea. It was field collected from the village of Okabulla #1 on the island of Kitava in 1987. The Kula Ring is a complex ritual involving people from different islands exchanging traditional shell bracelets for shell necklaces. This exchange has very strict rules, involves magic and is a way to maintain or increase a person’s social prestige. The splashboard is intricately carved and still has traces of white, red and black paint. The prow has more paint remaining and is darker in color. In general the items are in very good condition considering they have sailed the ocean and set in the elements for approximately 14 years. It was collected in 1987 and last used in a kula ring ritual in 1975. The mount is not included in the sale of this item. Splashboard size H 28" W 27 1/2" D 2" Prow size H 9" W 23" D 1 3/4" Total Weight 15 lbs. Please contact Martin Gallery for cost of handling and shipping.