War Club (Wahaika)

Artist Unknown

Dateearly 19th century

MediumWood

Dimensions15 x 4 7/8 x 3/4 in. (38.1 x 12.4 x 1.9 cm)

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Hanes

Object number86.15

On View

Not on view

Label Text
The Maori craftsman was primarily concerned with making articles for everyday use, including many kinds of weapons for warfare. This type of war club, used in close combat, was thrust at an adversary so that the blow was delivered by the rounded end. A thong through the hole at the base could be attached to the wrist. When not in use, the club was often worn on the belt as a sign of prestige. Although Maori carvers used a limited range of symbols, the double-spiral motif carved on this club was a hallmark of their sculpture.Exhibition HistoryRaleigh, NC, North Carolina Museum of Art, "Becoming the NCMA: 10 Decades of Collecting, 1924-2022," June 11-August 21, 2022. Object Rights Statement

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