Fijian Ula Throwing Club, Late 19th/Early 20th C

Description

Warriors of 19th C Fiji were well known for their ferocity and their weapons are now quite
scarce and desirable. The ula was a throwing club with a heavy head fashioned from the
root of a shrub. This example smaller than most, but showing a higher level of
workmanship. Fashioned of one piece of hardwood, the head with 22 carved flanges and
large bulbous finial. The tapering handle is carved with diamonds flanked by hatching; the
grip carved with intricate wrigglework bands. Wood with dark patina and showing very little
wear. Overall length 12 1/4″, head diameter 3″