Lot 12
Oceania, Eastern Papua New Guinea, Trobriand Islands, Massim peoples, ca. early 20th century CE. A carved canoe splash board, known locally as a rajim, shaped from a single piece of wood, this sculptural prow ornament was once mounted at the front of a seagoing canoe, directly behind the tabuya or wave divider. Its purpose extended far beyond utility: while it helped deflect water, the rajim also embodied potent spiritual protections for long-distance Kula voyages - ceremonial trade journeys central to Massim cultural life. Painted in natural pigments of red, black, and white, the board is adorned with deeply incised curvilinear designs, symbolic motifs, and twin anthropomorphic figures at the crest - possibly ancestral in nature. Stylized birds and snakes are carved into the upper edge and one the volute lobes, while the pierced edges were once adorned with shells such as cowrie to enhance both beauty and power. According to tradition, these boards were ritually blessed with magic before departure, to protect the crew. Size: 24" W x 28.75" H (61 cm x 73 cm)
Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA; acquired in 1999 from Taylor Dale (TAD) Gallery, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA.
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#195940
- Condition: Good condition. Stable pressure fissure near the base. Small piece of splintered wood on back of board that could easily break off, but will not affect presentation or structure of board. Some fading to pigments, but overall well preserved!
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