**Originally Listed At $600**
Oceania, Fiji Islands, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A beautiful example of the distinctive double-headed sali war club. Sometimes referred to as "cali," "tebetebe," or "gunstock clubs," this style of war club is recognizable based on the striking head's wide cheeks as well as a pronounced spur projecting above. The entire surface is highly polished which imbues the finely-incised linear and geometric motifs with a greater sense of definition. Weapons like this have 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 weapon was perhaps used in either close-combat or ceremonial dance performances. Size: 8.5" W x 37.5" H (21.6 cm x 95.2 cm); 40.25" H (102.2 cm) on included custom stand.
For a similar example, please see The Metropolitan Museum of Art, accession number 1979.206.1390: https://metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/313583
Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection
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#135712
Condition
Minor abrasions to handle and head, and light softening to some incised details, otherwise intact and excellent. Great patina throughout.