Steering Paddle

ClassificationsTools and Equipment-paddles

Culture Massim

Datemid 19th - early 20th Century

Made AtMilne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea

Collection SiteSydney, New South Wales, Australia, Australia

MediumWood

Dimensions78 5/16 × 11 7/16 × 1 5/8 in. (198.9 × 29 × 4.1 cm)

Credit LineThe George Stanley Lodin Collection

Object number2015.17.4

DescriptionAmong the many islands off the coast of New Guinea, sea-worthy canoes (and their apparatus) are decorated to ensure success and protection during extensive trading voyages. In the Trobriand Islands, two men steer the outrigger canoes that carry shells, personal adornments, food and other goods for barter and exchange. A smaller paddle with a leaf-shaped blade such as this example is placed through the canoe's slats at the stern to help guide the craft. The paddle is masterfully fashioned, thin and light in weight and features the swirling designs typical of the Massim area.

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