Oceania, Papua New Guinea, Trobriand Islands, Massim peoples, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. An exquisite and sizable dance club, hand-carved from hardwood with a blade-like shaft that tapers to a rounded point, and a zoomorphic head finial. The head is in profile and is a stylized depiction of a bird, possibly a frigate or other seafaring bird, incised and low relief carved with a circular eye and the beak pointed upward, slightly open. Emerging from the tip of the hooked beak is a second avian or zoomorphic head. A lovely espresso-hued patina covers the entirety of the ceremonial carving. Birds in Massim culture are rich in symbolism, the ability to fly in-between islands is admired and an invaluable guide for navigation and survival. Polynesian voyages often followed the seasonal and migratory patterns of birds to find islands, and it is thought that frigate birds were brought on such exploratory trips to release and follow towards land. Size: 40.75" L x 2.25" W (103.5 cm x 5.7 cm); 42.5" H (108 cm) on included custom stand.
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, acquired from 1995 to 2010
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#168476
Condition
Chips to tip of blade, and minor nicks to bird head and surface abrasions. Intact with great patina and fine details.