Makafeke = octopus lure.
Material type:
ObjectManufacturer: [Tonga?] : [between 1800-1999?]Description: 1 item ; 7 cm x 34 cm x 6 cmContent type: - three-dimensional form
- unmediated
- object
- Octopus lure [Parallel title]
| Item type | Current library | URL | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Objects - crm
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TNU, Faculty of Education, Arts and Humanities On display | Link to resource | Not for loan |
Title devised by cataloguer.
The makafeke is a traditional lure based on the Tongan legend Feke mo Kumā, the Octopus and the Rat, which tells the story of how an octopus carried a rat across the water to safety but was ultimately betrayed for his kindness when the rat defecated on top of his head. As the legend goes the octopus still seeks revenge on the mischievous rat. The makafeke is made out of limestone to represent the rat’s body and the tiger cowrie shell for its fur. Pandanus leaves and coconut husk fibre are used for its feet and tail. The lure is tied with rope, made out of braided coconut fibres, and then lowered into the water over shallow coral reefs and rocky areas. The lure is moved back and forth through the water in hopes of an octopus attaching it.
Height 7 cm x length 34 cm x width 6 cm.
This makafeke is made from a stone, cowrie shells, and the leaves of a plant attached by a string and has a rope attachment.
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