Nuku says she loves the piece because of the strong contrast that is created by the dark stained wood and the iridescent pearl shell.

"We have specially placed this object at one corner of the exhibition so its 'eyes' draw you in. When you view the prow from the other side, you come to realize that it has a really beautiful, handsome profile."

IF YOU GO

The Shape of Time: Art and Ancestors of Oceania from the Metropolitan Museum of Art

June 1-Aug 20, Monday-Sunday, 10 am-9 pm (last admission at 8 pm)

Museum of Art Pudong, 2777 Binjiang Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

400-820-8771