19th Century, a pair of traditional composite fishhooks from Oceania, each hand-fabricated from shell components, bound together with plied natural fiber cordage in the traditional lashing technique characteristic of Pacific Islander fishing implements. Both hooks retain their original fiber cord attachments, one with a substantial coil of hand-spun cordage still attached.Lot includes two (2) hooks: A curved shank forming the main body of the hook, fitted at the base with a barbed element, the two components joined with fine plaited fiber lashing. A generous coiled bundle of hand-twisted natural fiber cordage remains attached at the shank's upper end, likely the per the traditional design of this island form. Rich aged patina throughout; cordage shows expected wear and toning consistent with age and use. Minor tip loss. A straight shank paired with a sharply curved barb; the two elements bound together with fiber lashing at two points along the shank. The barb is finished with a finely worked, slightly serrated inner edge. Warm ivory-toned patina to the shank. Provenance: Ex-collection of Norman Hurst (1944–2011), founder and longtime proprietor of Hurst Gallery, Cambridge, Massachusetts (Harvard Square), a nationally recognized dealer and certified appraiser specializing in tribal art and antiquities, including an extensive focus on Oceanic material, active for over 30 years. Hook 1 — 5¼ in. (13.3 cm); Hook 2 — 3 7/8 in.