Summary

Fijian outrigger type model canoe with a single mast and triangular matting sail. Steered with an oar. This model was displayed at the 1880-81 Melbourne International Exhibition. It was presented to the Museum by the Fijian Commissioners for the Exhibition in 1881.

Boat models such as these were exhibited by colonial governments to showcase the skills of indigenous populations and as markers of their differences from Western peoples. However they were also used by indigenous peoples to maintain and pass down traditional skills and knowledge as they became less frequently used with the advent of colonialism.

Physical Description

Wooden model of a single outrigger canoe.

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