Hearthstone from the Borroloola bark canoe
Datec 1988
Object number00006785
NameHearthstone
MediumStone
DimensionsOverall: 46 x 254 x 209 mm, 2 kg
ClassificationsVessels and fittings
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionStone hearthstone from the Borroloola bark canoe. The surface is composed of light sandy coloured grain and has raised sides and a depressed centre.HistoryWhilst in canoes a small fire on a hearthstone was often kept to keep warm or to cook the catch. The fire needed to be kept stable and away from the bark of the canoe so the stone was set upon seaweed, wet clay or other non-flammable material.
SignificanceThe Borroloola bark canoe is, apart from the paperbark raft (na-wukungka), the tradtional indigenous watercraft of the Yanyuwa people .
1987
