Fishing Line Spooler
ClassificationsTools and Equipment-fishing equipment
Datemid 20th Century
Made AtMorobe Province, Papua New Guinea
MediumWood
Dimensions23 × 1 1/8 × 1/4 in. (58.4 × 2.9 × 0.6 cm)
Credit LineAnonymous Gift
Object number2018.14.41
DescriptionIn the Huon Gulf region, the inhabitants of the Tami Islands are known for their distinctive style of wood carving, often referred to as the Tami style. This unique art style is distinguished by the use of a caving method known as high-relief carving—in which designs are carved into the wood and protrude from the background. This method of carving requires meticulous planning beforehand and great skill tool manipulation to achieve desired effect. Based on similar objects from the Milne Bay Province, this tool was most likely used to spool fishing line. This object dates to the mid twentieth century. It consists of single piece of wood incised with a mirroring snake motif at the center and tapering ends. More research should be conducted on this particular object. The shape of the spool may have been useful to quickly reel in line for fishing activity, such as kite-fishing. The Tami are brilliant seamen, which allows them to extensively trade their craft goods with the neighboring islands—such as New Guinea, Rook, and Siassi. It is no surprise to find Tami style goods spread over large areas through trade. Due to social restrictions, the distinctive carving style of the Tami remains confined to their community of wood carvers. If any individuals outside the community used a style other than their own the act would constitute as a severe offence.On View
Not on viewCollections
mid 20th Century
mid 20th Century
mid 20th Century
early 20th Century
mid 20th Century
mid 20th Century
mid 20th Century
mid 20th Century
mid 20th Century
late 19th to early 20th Century
late 19th to early 20th Century