A GEELVINK BAY CANOE MODEL

Papua

Ex collection René Wassing, Rotterdam

Wood, 125 cm

To explore the Pacific, early voyagers needed canoes that were strong and seaworthy. Traditionally, such models as these were used by Pacific Island peoples to teach navigation skills. Efforts to understand and create awareness of indigenous pacific navigation skills formed an early part of the growing trend of re-creating historic vessels and re-tracing voyages. It was also instrumental in creating a revival of traditional indigenous boat building skills and navigational lore in many islands across the Pacific

Price on request.