Paddle, Bougainville or Buka, Solomon Islands

Fenton and Sons, "The Old Curiosity Shop", London (active circa 1880-1930)
Abraham Rosman and Paula Rubel, New York

As is typical of canoe paddles from the Northern Solomon Islands, this piece is decorated with very low relief carving, using contrasting red and black pigments. The tip of the paddle is painted with alternating red and black bands, ending in an asymmetrical curve, a design that is reminiscent of dripping water on a paddle that has been partially submerged. The head of what is known as a kokorra, with its emblematic softly pointed headdress, has been delicately carved towards the middle of the paddle head. Very little is known about kokorra figures, although they are commonly represented in art from the Northern Solomons, most of the time sitting in squatting positions with hands raised.