Late 19th C. Marquesas Islands Wood & Stone Adze

Oceania, French Polynesia, Marquesas Islands, Enata peoples, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A hefty utilitarian tool known as an adze used for plowing, tilling, and shaping wood, among other uses. A hand-carved, wedge-shaped blade with a tapered tang is secured to the wooden handle via one contiguous length of braided coconut sennet fibers and acts as the adze's main striking head. Opposite the blade is a finely engraved finial which on both sides exhibits an abstract anthropomorphic face with a tall coiffure or headdress. Since metal forging was unknown to the Enata people prior to Western contact, the multi-purpose adze was one of the most important tools in their society. A fine example that has developed a smooth patina. Size: 11" W x 13" H (27.9 cm x 33 cm); 15.375" H (39.1 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: ex-Aguttes Auctions, Paris, France (April 7, 2017, lot 44)

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#153873
Condition Report: Stone blade reinserted into bindings with very light adhesive residue along exterior strands surrounding tang. Minor abrasions to handle, finial, and stone blade, and minor loosening to some wrapped threads. Great patina throughout.