Images(4)

Serving Spool

Date19th century

Label TextWooden spools hold nettle fiber cordage that was used to wrap the leader section of a whale harpoon line, that part attached to the harpoon point. Whaling equipment has to function precisely to perform this dangerous job successfully, but the making and use of such apparatus was shrouded in reverence and secrecy. Images received in the dreams and visions of the whaler were transferred to his tools: here, the ends are carved with gray whale faces.

Object number92.11

Credit LineGift of the Native Arts of the Americas and Oceania Council of the Seattle Art Museum

Dimensions2 3/16 in. (5.56 cm) L.: 18 1/4 in. Diam.: 2 3/8 in.

MediumYew wood