Antique Tribal Oar | Circa 1900s Kerala | Handcrafted & Painted Teakwood Paddle

Maritime Heritage with Tribal Craftsmanship

This antique tribal oar from Kerala, dating back to the early 1900s, is a remarkable relic of India’s coastal life and river traditions. Handcrafted from dense teakwood and once used by fishing and boat-faring communities, it represents both utility and cultural expression. Its sculpted form and decorative details embody the skill and artistry of Kerala’s indigenous makers.

Distinctive Painted & Patinated Finish

What makes this piece especially rare is its original blue-painted surface. Though softened and weathered by decades of use, the pigment still peeks through the naturally aged patina, evoking the hues of Kerala’s backwaters and maritime palette. Each brushstroke, now worn by time, speaks of the lived history and layered charm of coastal craftsmanship.

Handcrafted Detail & Symbolism

The oar features a double-pronged handle, ergonomically shaped for ease of rowing and distinct to tribal Kerala design. Carved notches, sculpted lines, and brass reinforcements along the joints not only strengthened its structure but also carried decorative symbolism. These accents highlight a balance between practicality and cultural artistry, transforming a functional tool into an artefact of identity and resilience.

Key Features

• Date & Origin: Early 1900s, Kerala, India

• Material: Solid teakwood, naturally aged with visible grain

• Finish: Original blue paint, partially preserved with distressed patina

• Design: Elongated shaft with double-prong handle and broad paddle base

• Detailing: Brass hardware reinforcements and hand-carved surface motifs

• Use: Originally for rowing traditional wooden boats, now ideal for heritage décor

Why Collectors Value It

• Rare combination of paint, patina, and brass craftsmanship

• Authentic early 20th-century tribal maritime object

• Decorative yet historically significant, bridging craft and folklore

• Perfect for collectors of nautical, tribal, or South Indian artefacts

• A sustainable and soulful accent that adds narrative to any interior

Styling Tip

Mount this oar horizontally on a feature wall, or lean it vertically in a corner to highlight its height and slender elegance. Pair with clay vessels, jute rugs, or coastal artwork to create a layered, heritage-inspired display. Its blue tones also contrast beautifully against neutral walls, stone, or natural wood.

Exclusively available at Regen Bespoke
Historic. Rare. Coastal.