This wooden carving, probably from the Austral Islands, Polynesia, was collected by Captain Cook in 1769. This object has confounded the curators. We know a lot about it, but its almost impossible to say exactly what it is – it might be the prow of a canoe but its significance is unknown, though double figures expressed divine power.
For enquiries relating to visiting the museum, MAA can be contacted by telephone during our opening hours of 10:30am to 4:30pm, Tuesday to Saturday and 12.00 to 4.30pm on Sundays.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3DZ
Tel: +44 (0)1223 333516
General enquiries
All general enquiries should be directed in the first instance to the Museum Administrator, in writing, via email or by calling +44 (0)1223 333510.
Curatorial enquiries
For specific enquiries relating to particular subject areas, the MAA’s collections managers may be contacted in writing or via email:
Archaeology: Imogen Gunn
Anthropology: Rachel Hand
Photographic Collections: Jocelyne Dudding
Photographic reproductions
Photographic orders and permissions enquiries should be directed to: images@maa.cam.ac.uk
