Fish Hook (Matau)
Maori people, New Zealand
19th century
Paua shell, wood, bone and flax fiber cord
4 1/2″ (h) x 7/8″ (w) x 1 1/4″ (d)
Maori fishermen would often use paua shells on their fish hooks as the flashes of movement on the reflective shell attract fish. The lure was trailed behind canoes (waka) in estuaries or close to the shore using lines of finely plaited flax fiber or muka.
Price on request
