Axe Haft Currency
ClassificationsTools and Equipment-axes
Culture
Massim
Date20th Century
Made AtMilne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea
Collection SiteMilne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea
MediumWood, fiber and paint
Dimensions32 × 13 1/2 × 3/4 in. (81.3 × 34.3 × 1.9 cm)
Credit LineCollected on behalf of the Bowers Museum by the Roski-Keller-Martin Expedition
Object number2014.12.32
DescriptionThe purpose of such axe hafts is not a functional one. Rather, together with stone blades, these axes are a prestige item and a form of currency within the Massim area. The overall purpose of the haft of the axe is to display and set off the striking qualities of the blade, which is where the axe’s value lies. The bottom finial of presentation axes very often features a frigate bird design. It is possible that the carving seen here is a stylized representation of an upside down bird. There are currently mixed reports about whether or not these axes are still actively being used as currency. Regardless, it is clear that presentation axes continue to hold an esteemed place in Massim society.On View
Not on viewCollections
