Fine Massim/Trobriand pole club.
 

Got this at a market today. I think it knocks all those expensive but not uncommon Fijian clubs, even some with ivory inlay into a tricorne hat :p 107cm long. I show it next to a plain version from the same seas and an African club. Interesting the weights are African 500g, new fancy club 650g old plain one 750g. After I had purchased the item, walking around the venue I kept getting strange looks and an uncanny feeling as if I was not properly dressed. :shrug: Just love that easy generous cool zigzag.

A VERY NICE STAFF OR CLUB. :) THE CARVING REMINDS ME OF THE MASSIM STYLE.
I JUST NOTICED YOUR TITLE NO WONDER I GUESSED MASSIM :o
LIKELY TO HAVE BEEN A STAFF SHOWING RANK OR STATUS ( OF COURSE GOOD AS A WALKING STICK OR TO BONK SOMEONE IF NEEDED :D ) LOOKS TO HAVE SEEN A LOT OF USE AND GOOD AGE JUDGEING FROM THE PICTURES.

Barry you might like a look at this. I got this in a market about a month ago. Okay not a weapon but it does have a blade :) . I like the way the artist has worked the right arm, which could be seen to have the elbow rest on the knee and the forearm behind the child? figure, or the arm and leg become one and she could well be scratching her bum? I just think it brilliant observation and very gentle humour.

Hi Tim,

That's a beautiful club you have there...

What is it that would differentiate this example from the "expensive but not uncommon" clubs you compare it to? Is the design and relief work not as detailed as one might expect? :confused:

I also can relate to the "strange looks" you describe, as I too receive them whenever I find a sword - or especially a spear - at a local swap meet. Of course, nothing gets people to "make a hole" like a giant tribal spear in your hand. ;)

I HAVE ALWAYS LOVED WOOD CARVING AND HAVE EVEN DONE A LITTLE SO ESPECIALLY APPRECIATE GOOD WOOD AND CRAFTSMANSHIP. THE MAORI STYLE CARVINGS ARE MY FAVORITE BUT THE MASSIM CARVINGS SORT OF REMIND ME OF THEIR WORK. I WONDER IF THE MASSIM/ TROBRIAND GROUPS DO BETTER CARVING BECAUSE THEY HAD OBSIDIAN AVAILABLE TO THEM NOT JUST SHELL, CORAL AND BONE. OF COURSE THERE ARE OTHER GROUPS WHO DO GREAT CARVING IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC BUT I WON'T GET INTO THAT HERE. :rolleyes:
THE BEST THING I EVER BOUGHT FOR CLEARING OUT A CROWD WAS AT A GUN SHOW IT WAS A 9 1/2 FOOT LONG SAILFISH AND I WENT THRU BILL FIRST. :D

That's the best use for a bill I've seen Vandoo.

Yet another great piece Tim.

F

Barry. yes Maori carving is stunning but just a little energetic fierce even. I am a little more laid back in my taste. Would love to have some, old stuff that is.