Australia
19th century
Turpentine wood
Length: 25½ inches (64.8 cm)
Provenance: London trade
Clubs of this elongated, double-tapered form were produced across a broad range of Aboriginal communities in eastern Australia, where turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera) was valued for its exceptional density and resistance to splitting under impact. This example retains a deep brown surface patina developed through age and handling, consistent with 19th-century collection. The notched decoration along the shaft places it within a carving tradition in which surface treatment served both aesthetic and identificatory functions.
The club's profile, tapering to points at both ends with a slightly swelled grip, is characteristic of a throwing and close-combat form documented widely in colonial-era collections. Its condition, weight distribution, and surface wear reflect sustained use prior to collection, and the piece entered the market through the London trade, a common route for Australian material acquired during the 19th century.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Australia
19th century
Turpentine wood
Length: 25½ inches (64.8 cm)
Provenance: London trade
Clubs of this elongated, double-tapered form were produced across a broad range of Aboriginal communities in eastern Australia, where turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera) was valued for its exceptional density and resistance to splitting under impact. This example retains a deep brown surface patina developed through age and handling, consistent with 19th-century collection. The notched decoration along the shaft places it within a carving tradition in which surface treatment served both aesthetic and identificatory functions.
The club's profile, tapering to points at both ends with a slightly swelled grip, is characteristic of a throwing and close-combat form documented widely in colonial-era collections. Its condition, weight distribution, and surface wear reflect sustained use prior to collection, and the piece entered the market through the London trade, a common route for Australian material acquired during the 19th century.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
