Antiques, Decorative and Fine Arts Auction
Lot 133:
Oceanic Wooden Adze Handle, Solomon Islands / Papua New Guinea, 19th–Early 20th C.
Description
Oceanic Adze Handle
Solomon Islands / Papua New Guinea, 19th–Early 20th Century
Carved wooden adze haft of classic Austronesian form, with a deeply hollowed triangular socket at the upper end for the insertion and lashing of a stone or shell blade. The long tapering shaft shows rich, dark patina from age and use, and the lower section features finely incised cross-hatched carving for grip. Surfaces exhibit tool-marks, wear, and encrustation consistent with traditional woodworking use in canoe-making and carving. Mounted on a modern display base.
Length: approx. 13.5 in.
Condition: Wear, patination, minor losses and abrasions consistent with age and utilitarian use.
Provenance: Estate collection, Montréal.
Share this lot:
