Macassan-style, hand carved hollow wooden smoking pipe
Date1994
Object number00046795
NameTobacco pipe
MediumWood, paint
DimensionsOverall: 43 x 762 x 38 mm, 177.43 g
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionPipes such as this are indicative of the significant cultural exchange between Indigenous Australians and Macassan fishermen and traders in the north of Australia over several centuries.HistoryTobacco first reached northern Australia at the beginning of the 18th century when the Macassan fishermen of Indonesia came for trepang and other marine resources. Pipes, tobacco and other goods were offered in exchange for access to coastal waters and the right to camp, primarily between the Kimberleys and the Gulf of Carpentaria. The Macassans recognised Indigenous ownership of the waters and land.
SignificanceMacassan fishermen have fished the waters of northern Australia for centuries. They interacted with Indigneous communities and many vestiges of this are still visible today, including practical articles such as this Macassan-style pipe. 
Early 20th century
