Description:

Oceania, Micronesia / Melanesia, ca. mid- 20th century CE. A woven fishing trap of remarkable craftsmanship, constructed from bent saltbush sticks and tightly lashed with twisted coconut coir fiber cordage- locally known as magimagi. Arched at the top and built around a stout wooden base, the trap features a tubular circular opening at one end designed to funnel prey inward, where escape becomes nearly impossible. A large shell dangles at the entrance, serving both as bait and visual lure, particularly suited for attracting moray eels. Additional large shells adorn the sides, additional lures. Though traditionally used in shallow reef or lagoon waters, such traps were also produced for exchange or sale, combining utility with regional artistry. Some elements, such as the modern fishing line securing the base poles have been added to reinforce the cords. Size: 30" L x 21" W x 19" H (76.2 cm x 53.3 cm x 48.3 cm)

Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA; acquired in 1991-1992 from Will Channing

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)

PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.

#195948

  • Condition: Some losses and fraying to cords, but tightly lashed together and very sturdy. Unknown if used for fishing, but appears to have some white encrustations, perhaps from use.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Bidder Can Make Shipping Arrangements, Local Pick-Up, In-House Shipping

August 22, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer’s premium, as outlined below, and any applicable taxes and shipping.
Buyer's Premium
$0 - $249,999:
26.00%
$250,000+:
22.50%

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 + $500