SAMOAN CLUB IN THE FORM OF AN AXE

Early-mid 19th century. 14 3/4” length, carved from a single piece of wood carved in the form of a ship’s carpenter’s axe. That form precedes the machine made axes of the mid-19th century. The integral haft of elegant early form as well. Native made weapons replicated those seen in the hands of those seen in the hands of Europeans and are encountered occasionally, primarily among African cultures This axe was obviously copied from examples seen on sailing vessels which visited the islands. Shows wear and use with some age encrustation.