#21 • Pacific Island Samoan War Club

Part of Professor’s Collection Part One: Pacific & Pre-Columbian Artifacts (live auction by Blue Box Auction Gallery)

High bid $150.00

Status: Sold

Estimated Value: $450-650 Origin: Samoan Islands Dimensions: 30x3.5x1.5 in.  Condition: Light wear along the edges of the wood Additional Information: A carved war club sword with a diamond pointed shape at the top and small carved triangular embellishments throughout and has lime infill in the decorative carving. These clubs were traditionally used in warfare and were symbols of power and status.  These clubs were carved from wood and often resembled canoe paddles, with some featuring sharp, pointed edges for striking. While some versions of nifo'oti were inspired by European blubber knives, many were also adapted from traditional Samoan tools for agricultural and other uses.  Reportedly form 1920-1940 (pre-WWII) and provenance from a New England private collection.