Halibut hook

ca. 1920

Makah fishermen were experts in capturing the large ocean-going halibut that today is still a staple at tribal gatherings. A wooden spreader attached to the fisherman’s line held the hooks that were suspended from it with nettle line, and stone sinkers as well.

Bone point, spruce root, hemlock root

7 x 3 3/8 x 1/2in. (17.8 x 8.6 x 1.3cm)

Gift of John and Grace Putnam

2006.23

Now on view at the Seattle Art Museum

Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.

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