Lot #279 - A rare Papua New Guinea ceremonial axe, Mount Hagen region, Southern Highlands, late 19th century
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Auction House:Gibson's Auctioneers & Valuers
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Sale Name:Australian, Maritime & Natural History | Part I
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Sale Date:28 Aug 2022 ~ 12noon (AEST)
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Lot #:279
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Lot Description:A rare Papua New Guinea ceremonial axe, Mount Hagen region, Southern Highlands, late 19th century
the hand shaped polished grey stone blade, with intricately plaited rattan binding and an axe head shaped counterweight at the opposing end, tapering wood handle. Condition: Wear consistent with age and use. The schist axe blade with some chips and losses. Areas of the rattan binding holding the schist axe blade have loosened. Some braiding partially detached. An area of the binding for the axe head have partially loosened and the blade has become detached.
65 x 60cm -
Notes:These axes were very highly prized possessions, often taking up to six months to complete and polish the stone with an equal amount of time spent on the fine rattan cane-work used in lashing the blade and counter weight. These were intended primarily for ceremonial dances, but were also used for barter and marriage gifts.
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Estimate:A$600 - 800
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Realised Price:
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Category:Tribal
This Sale has been held and this item is no longer available. Details are provided for information purposes only.
