Minneapolis Institute of Art

Ceremonial Paddle

French Polynesia (Austral Islands)

Date

1820–40

Medium

Wood

Department

Arts of Oceania

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

Ceremonial paddles are among the best-known examples of Austral Islands art. Although their original purpose is not clear, they were likely used as dance wands. In the early 19th century, many were made as souvenirs for European travelers. It is unclear whether this particular paddle was used locally or made for the market about 200 years ago. The geometric design—of interlocking diamonds arranged in bands on the paddle—was carved with a shark’s tooth. A circle of bottle-horned beast heads, carved in full relief, decorates the pommel. French Polynesia, Oceania

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