PRE-CONTACT FIJIAN WAR CLUB KIAKAVO

Exceptionally early example showing great age with deep patina. 33‰۝ length of characteristic form with curved terminal, the underside with deeply scored striking face panel and thumb form back projection. Low crest at the junction of the terminal and back projection. The tip with a vertical crest as well. Wood dry with numerous checks, cracks, and splinters some with considerable wear over them indicating decades of use. A few areas of insect damage. A series of six cuts or notches, undoubtedly kill tallies ahead of the middle. The presence of insect damage indicated a long history of use on the island where it was created and thus an extended history in the cannibalistic culture. It likely was the club of an esteemed ancestor, perhaps used by generations afterward, and probably displayed along with his skull in the house rafters. Probably 18th century and as well used an example as we have come across.