Polynesian, probably Samoan, ca. mid to late 19th century CE. A hand-made model of an outrigger canoe, featuring a single hull that has been hollowed out with a central mast supported by eleven fiber strings and a crossbar. The outrigger was designed to provide greater stability to the canoe. The indigenous islanders of Southeast Asia developed outrigger canoes for sea travel more than 2,000 years ago. These vessels were used to transport passengers eastward through to Polynesia and New Zealand, and remarkably, they are still used today. Size: 31.25" L x 20.5" H (79.4 cm x 52.1 cm); 22.375" H (56.8 cm) on included custom stand.

This piece was featured at Bonhams, New York - "African, Oceanic and Pre-Columbian Art" - May 12, 2011, lot 2054 - with an estimate of $1500 - $2000.

Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection; ex-Bonhams, New York - "African, Oceanic and Pre-Columbian Art" - May 12, 2011, lot 2054.

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#136117

A few chips to peripheries of the hull and outrigger. Crossbar broken and reglued. Expected surface wear commensurate with age.