Club

ClassificationsArms and Armor-clubs

Date19th Century

Made AtVanuatu

MediumWood and human hair

Dimensions51 × 5 1/4 × 1 in. (129.5 × 13.3 × 2.5 cm)

Credit LineBowers Museum Purchase

Object number2014.18.2

DescriptionWarfare is very much so a part of the culture of Vanuatu. As such, variously shaped clubs were made and traditionally carried at all times. While some types of clubs can be found throughout the islands of Vanuatu, this paddle-like club was made and used exclusively in Pentecost Island. Slender clubs with a slightly projecting grip are hallmarks of traditional Pentecost Island clubs. Human hair is almost always wrapped around the grip, but coconut fiber has been used as well. This club in particular was made in the southern part of Pentecost Island.

On View

On view

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