Mortlock Island Shell Adze

A rare adze from Mortlock Island, home to 400 inhabitants. This atoll lacks useable rock, and tools have been traditionally made from available shell.
This piece is mid-century. Wood, shell, and native cordage.

An example collected on an early expedition is in the British Museum: click here

51cm/20 in length overall. blade length 10cm/4 in
$500

40% off sale price: $300