A Collection of Four Solomon Islands Spinning or Trolling Hooks
A Collection of Four Solomon Islands Spinning or Trolling Hooks
With carved clam shell shanks and carved tortoiseshell points, used for catching bonito
Pearl shell, tortoiseshell, coconut fibre and hemp
Late 19th Century
Size: 16.5cm long – 6½ ins long (max.)
13.5cm long – 5¼ ins long (min.)
With carved clam shell shanks and carved tortoiseshell points, used for catching bonito
Pearl shell, tortoiseshell, coconut fibre and hemp
Late 19th Century
Size: 16.5cm long – 6½ ins long (max.)
13.5cm long – 5¼ ins long (min.)
Probably originating from Malaita or Ulawa island, the shape of the shank on these hooks is carved to resemble a fish. Bonito (Sarda Chilensis) is a type of mackerel up to 30 inches long that together with shark were of great economic and ritual importance in the Solomon Islands. The first bonito of the season was considered sacred and a boy’s first catch was a momentous event in his initiation into manhood.
A Collection of Four Solomon Islands Spinning or Trolling Hooks
SOLD