Ngahau

human history

Ngahau. Bow. A ngahau (bow) is one of the most basic weapons and hunting implements in Tonga, it is also known as a kaufana. This ngahau has been carved from one block or branch of wood, most probably the toa (ironwood) tree. The surface area is smooth and it is medium brown in colour, it is a curved bow which would have been used for close distance shooting. The pull string is missing but there are slight indentations at either end to secure the pull string to. Ngahau can be used as a weapon in warfare, as well as a hunting in both land and sea.

Accession number: 1925.146 Last Update: 10 Dec 2020
Other Name

Kaufana

Place
Tonga/Pacific
Accession Number

1925.146

Accession Date

06 Mar 1925

Other Id

14377 (ethnology)

Department

Pacific

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