Aboriginal Victorian Ceremonial Tool
#153062

An old, dark hardwood aboriginal ceremonial tool from S.E. Australia of unusual shape, echoing that of some longer early clubs. On one end a raised terminal, expanding on the shaft into a three sided instrument, culminating in a point. Old, now faint drawings in faded black ink or pigment depicting an animal totem on the three surfaces of the head. Areas of wear, including at head. Glossy patina. A private communication informs us that this may have been used in rainmaking ceremonies. Material from S.E. Australia, where first contact wiped out most of the aboriginal populations, is rare. Circa 19th century.

Length: 33 cm / 13 in
Width: 5 cm / 2 in

SOLD

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