Two fighting clubs ·  Australia · ID: 3049995

Description

a) nail club, southeastern Australia, hardwood, iron nails, l: 73 cm
b) club, southeastern Australia, hardwood, L: 61 cm

Aboriginals in eastern Australia used a wide range of clubs for fighting and hunting.

Feuding occurred mainly between clans or local groups, but fights within camps were a common event. Vendettas were carried on for years and often led to numerous deaths.

Generally the main purpose of warfare was to avenge an insult or crime or to capture women - never to capture the land or other possessions of an enemy.

The object Two fighting clubs with the object ID 3049995 was part of the auction 101st Auction on November 11, 2023, lot number 54 at that time and is currently available for EUR 500 in Open sale.

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Comparing literature

Carrick, John (ed.), Art of the first Australians, Camperdown o.J., p. 20, ill. 223 (a) / p. 19, ill. 215 (b)