The John Bannister Collection - D-Day and Militaria
Lot 2115:
Description
Late 19th/Early 20th Century Pacific Fijian Ula throwing club known as an “I Ula Tavatava”. Meant to be thrown at the enemy, a warrior would have several either tucked into his belt or close to hand, making this a ubiquitous weapon of war. Unlike other Melanesian cultures like New Guinea, Fijians did not use shields. They did use spears, and like the Maori of New Zealand, fighting with clubs was the most honorable weapon to use in battle. These clubs were carved from the buttress roots of ironwood saplings. This particular Ula has a deep, dark patina, with crack and chips commensurate with its age and usage. Carved handle Dimensions: 17.25” long x 4.3” diameter head. Please see photos.
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