The John Bannister Collection - D-Day and Militaria
Lot 2112:
Description
19thth/20th Century Pacific Tolai tribal Club from New Britain, off the eastern coast of Papua New Guinea. The Tolai were sling fighters and clubs were used by chiefs to direct the fight. Not utilized in combat per se, but insignia of an important person. With the arrival of German colonials, modern manufactured axes became available to the natives and they incorporated them into their prestige dance wands that could double as a weapon if needs be. The axe head on this particular piece has “No 2” and some makers marks below (unintelligible), as well as some décor on the hammering end. Wooden handle is in good condition, with a cracked missing portion just below where it is hafted. Although obvious, it does not diminish the piece’s presence. Dimensions: 38.75” long. Axe head 7” wide and 3.5” long blade. Please see photos.
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