Spear Thrower

ClassificationsArms and Armor-spear throwers

Datemid 19th - early 20th Century

Made AtPapua New Guinea

Collection SiteSydney, New South Wales, Australia, Australia

MediumWood, pigment and fiber

Dimensions29 1/2 × 3 1/4 × 1 in. (74.9 × 8.3 × 2.5 cm)

Credit LineThe George Stanley Lodin Collection

Object number2015.17.8

DescriptionSpear throwers aid in warfare as they extend the range of a spear. They are also effective when used within the dugout canoes of the Sepik as the movements required to launch a spear via a thrower maintain a man’s balance while aboard. A spear is loaded into the hollow shaft of the thrower and is then launched at a target. The abstract bird form on this example serves as a place for a warrior to hold the spear in position with their thumb. These portions of spear throwers are often symbols representing certain clans or are symbols related to spiritual beliefs. Once the warrior’s thumb is removed and the spear is launched, it will have a greater velocity and range than a spear thrown without the aid of a spear thrower.

On View

Not on view