Malaita club.

[Tim Simmons]

It is here and as I say not the finest of carving but still a splendid thing. It appears to be carved with stone blades or at least without the use of metal files. I think it would not be unreasonable to think it dates from early 20th century possibly even circa 1900? when I judge the patina with our late 19th century dining table.
In form it is like an axe. A blow to your chest would crack your sternum, a blow to the head would be like taking the top off your boilled egg. As I guessed 18cm across at the stricking end. I show it with a selection of other clubs. I have added pictures from the book mention earlier for atmospherics. The map of Malaita Island shows the three main tribal groups. The Kwara'ae, Kawaio and the Are'are. Sure there would be many sub tribes? Note the police have Lee Enfield rifles. There is a famous picture of Geronimo with a Snider.