Description: Polynesian Carved Handle Ceremonial Adze - Shark (Cook Island?) Late 19th / early 20th Century, South Pacific / Oceanic, ornately carved handle, coconut fiber wrap, stone head. Overall approximately 19” x 5.75". Condition: nice aged patina, coconut fiber wrap loosened, split; chip on adze blade. This exquisitely carved adze, most likely for ceremonial purposes, is reflective of adzes made in the Cook Islands, late 19th to early 20th c.. It has a basalt head with finely carved shark handle that likely was never intended for practical use. The adze was an attribute of Tane, the Polynesian god of Nature. The craftsmen of Mangaia believed that Tane himself had taught their ancestors how to lash the stone head to the handle with sennit (coconut fibre) binding. The processional adze was seen as a tribute to Tane. 28 1/2" long, 10" head; small split in wood. One chip to corner of head. Please refer to photos for accurate details (size, color, condition, etc). Most examples of ceremonial adzes are in Museums so this is a rare opportunity to add a prized rare item to your collection. Please be sure to check out my store for more fine inquire cultural collectibles. Thank you!
Price: 1650 USD
Location: Saint Paul, Minnesota
End Time: 2024-12-12T22:44:52.000Z
Shipping Cost: 40 USD
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All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Culture: Pacific Islands
