The John Bannister Collection - D-Day and Militaria
Lot 2116:
Description
Extremely rare hard to find antique Pacific Island War club from Oceania, Melanesia, Fiji, circa 19th Century, C.E. Very intricately carved handle with prominent, natural ironwood root stock head. The lower 9” of the handle is intricately carved with traditional repetitive geometric patterns, worn down from many years of handling. At the base is a woven band of natural fibers that exhibit the same level of wear and handling as the carvings it abuts. The piece has many longitudinal cracks in its body, typical of its age and material. The club exhibits a dark, rich patina. It measures 42.25” long and the root head diameter is approximately 5.5”. The handle diameter in the center is 1.8”. This is a beautiful war club, with a bold presence. It was both a practical tool of warfare and powerful symbol of status in Fijian society, where armed conflict were a frequent part of life.
Share this lot:
