Auction 104 After sale
Zemanek-Münster

Paddle club "culacula"

Fidji Islands
not available anymore
Provenance
Alexander Kubetz, Munich, Germany
Size
H: 119 cm
H: 46.9 inch

Description

wood, base

From the earliest reports, Fiji was characterised as having endemic warfare, the causes of which ranged from raiding for sacrificial victims to disputes over chiefly precedence, women and land. Fiji also produced the greatest variety of weapons including clubs, of any Oceanic culture.

These Fijian “culacula” clubs were a fierce battle weapon. The spade shape head has two striking edges, each stepped cutting serrations. It’s said these edges were capable of cutting through bone.


Comparing literature

Hooper, Steven (ed.), Power and Prestige. The Art of Clubs in Oceania, Exhibition catalogue, Venice 2021, p. 196 f.

Exhibition

Schwaz, Austria, Haus der Völker: "Südsee - Schätze der dunklen Inseln", 15. Mai 2005 - 18. September 2005

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