San Cristobal (Makira), Solomon Islands
Mid-19th century
Hardwood
Height: 64 in (162.6 cm)
Provenance: Private collection, Massachusetts; private collection, Amsterdam
Spears from San Cristobal, now known as Makira, were among the principal weapons used in inter-island warfare across the southeastern Solomons, their length and balance suited to both throwing and close combat. Objects of this type were made from dense local hardwoods selected for their straightness and durability, the shaft worked to a consistent taper along its full length. The Massachusetts and Amsterdam provenance suggests the piece passed through both American and European collections during the mid-to-late twentieth century.
The spear terminates in a carved and bound tip, the upper portion of the shaft carrying incised decoration consistent with San Cristobal weapon traditions. The wood has darkened throughout to a deep tone, the surface carrying a patina consistent with age and handling over a long period. The overall form is clean and well-preserved at 64 inches, the full length intact.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
San Cristobal (Makira), Solomon Islands
Mid-19th century
Hardwood
Height: 64 in (162.6 cm)
Provenance: Private collection, Massachusetts; private collection, Amsterdam
Spears from San Cristobal, now known as Makira, were among the principal weapons used in inter-island warfare across the southeastern Solomons, their length and balance suited to both throwing and close combat. Objects of this type were made from dense local hardwoods selected for their straightness and durability, the shaft worked to a consistent taper along its full length. The Massachusetts and Amsterdam provenance suggests the piece passed through both American and European collections during the mid-to-late twentieth century.
The spear terminates in a carved and bound tip, the upper portion of the shaft carrying incised decoration consistent with San Cristobal weapon traditions. The wood has darkened throughout to a deep tone, the surface carrying a patina consistent with age and handling over a long period. The overall form is clean and well-preserved at 64 inches, the full length intact.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
