Wave Splitter Finial (Munkuris)

ClassificationsTools and Equipment-canoe ornaments

Culture Massim

Date20th Century

Made AtMilne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea

Collection SiteMilne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea

MediumWood and paint

Dimensions4 1/2 × 2 3/4 × 1/4 in. (11.4 × 7 × 0.6 cm)

Credit LineCollected on behalf of the Bowers Museum by the Roski-Keller-Martin Expedition

Object number2014.12.13

DescriptionWave splitter finials are a part of the elaborate ngega kula canoes used in the kula trade ring in the Massim area of Papua New Guinea. Known colloquially as munkuris, the finials are tied atop a wave splitter, also known as prowboard or tabuya, which is located on both the prow and the stern of the canoe. While they are usually elaborately carved and painted, this example seems to only have small traces of white paint. It also appears that the carving is not necessarily as elaborate as other examples. Perhaps this munkuris was never used or was in the process of being created.

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