Fishing Float

67-5-65B

From: Solomon Islands | Santa Ana, Solomon Islands

Curatorial Section: Oceanian

Object Number 67-5-65B
Current Location Collections Storage
Provenience Solomon Islands | Santa Ana, Solomon Islands
Section Oceanian
Materials Wood | Peel
Description

Sets of these used for catching flying fish, usually with only a fishing gorge. Floats are set in lines of up to ten. Carvings are mnemonics to enable fishermen to keep track of each float in his set. These highly carved ones are used only in connection with the sacred canoe-men's houses; in household fishing sets are not carved with images. Human form is ataro tari, "running spirit", fish is mwarore, "garfish." Ataro tari is always set last on Santa Ana. Carver: Reresimae of Natagera

Length 119 cm
Credit Line William Kohler Expedition; William H. Davenport, 1967

Report problems and issues to digitalmedia@pennmuseum.org.