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Yatula (canoe bailer) from Kiriwina, Trobriand Islands, Papua New Guinea
Yatula (canoe bailer) from Kiriwina, Trobriand Islands, Papua New Guinea

Yatula (canoe bailer) from Kiriwina, Trobriand Islands, Papua New Guinea

Date1970s
Object number00008555
NameBailer
MediumWood
DimensionsOverall: 110 x 484 mm, 1.5 kg
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionA yatula, or canoe bailer, from Kiriwina, Trobriand Islands, Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea. A hollowed out piece of wood in the shape of a scoop with a carved handle inside the bailer. The top of the bailer is carved with a decorative pattern and has shaped edges.HistoryCarved wooden canoe bailer from Kiriwina Island in the Trobiand Islands. Wooden bailers such has this have largery been superceded by plastic drink containers. The Trobriand Islanders have one of the most sophisticated and resilient maritime cultures in the Pacific region. Trobriand Islander artefacts have appeared many times throughout the Torres Strait Islands.SignificanceThe Trobriand Islanders have one of the most sophisticated and resilient maritime cultures in the Pacific region and Trobriand Islander artefacts have appeared many times throughout the Torres Strait Islands.