Katariya (boomerang)

Culture Gujarati , western India

Date1700s-1800s

Mediumiron

Dimensions46.4 cm (18 1/4 in.), 14 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.462

DescriptionCurved with chiseled decoration on surface of both sides. Surface is blackened with worn areas along both edges. Pommel is oval with small beads or stones inside, creating a rattle effect.
Label TextAlthough this piece is probably purely ceremonial, boomerangs of similar shape, but fashioned of wood or horn, were used for hunting in the Indian sub-continent. The better-known "come back," or "return" boomerang is used primarily for sport or for hunting birds. This example has metallic beads in the bulb at its base--in theory, the rattling sound would help track the boomerang's flight.ProvenanceA permanent loan from Andover Newton Theological School (Andover, MA) on March 22, 1946; a formal gift by the school on 22 September 1999. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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