Description:

Oceania, Fiji Islands, ca. 19th century CE. A gorgeous example of the distinctive double-headed kiakavo war club. This style is sometimes called a "snake" type club with "waka kiakavo" ridges on the back of the head, or a "gunstock" club because of its resemblance to the butt of a rifle. The entire surface is highly polished, with a deliberately rougher area left under the "chin" of the snake head. These weapons had both ceremonial and functional roles, and their forms were cultivated from living trees. The ridges were beaten into the tree while it was still growing, to allow the curved shape to arise "naturally" instead of having to be later carved. Lacking a cutting edge, this distinctive weapon was mainly used in dance performances. Size: 8.5" W x 39.375" H (21.6 cm x 100 cm).

Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection

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#133692

  • Condition: Small chips to fin on snake head, light abrasions to handle and base, and a few stable hairline fissures. Smooth, dark patina across exterior.

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February 11, 2021 10:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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