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Club, Kanak Bird Beak (kana), 19th Century, New Caledonia

$1,353.90
£1,007.71
€1,130
CA$1,854.51
A$2,062.62
CHF 1,077.03
MX$25,099.86
NOK 13,755.38
SEK 12,900.12
DKK 8,602.30
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About the Item

"Club, Kanak Bird Beak (kana), 19th Century, New Caledonia" 19th-Century Kanak War Club (Kana) Origin: New Caledonia (Kanak People, Melanesia) Date: 19th century Material: Hardwood (likely Casuarina or Ironwood) Dimensions: Length 75 cm × Width 32.5 cm Condition: Very good, with rich patina, signs of use, and an old fracture visible in the photos Description A sculptural and powerful Kana war club from the Kanak people of New Caledonia, dated to the 19th century. Entirely hand-carved from a single piece of dense tropical hardwood, the club exhibits the iconic L-shaped form, designed for forceful close-combat strikes. The striking head features a stylized bird’s beak motif, symbolizing ancestral protection, status, and warrior authority. The overall balance and flow of the form reflect both aesthetic refinement and martial utility. The shaft bears a rich, aged patina, with visible signs of authentic handling. There is an old break near the head of the club (see photos); stable and unrepaired, this flaw does not compromise the integrity of the piece and speaks to its long history. No modern restorations. Cultural Context The Kana was more than a weapon—it was a symbol of rank and ancestral connection, used in ritual dances, formal exchanges, and as part of a chief’s regalia. Bird-headed clubs were reserved for high-status individuals and carried deep spiritual resonance. Comparable examples are housed in major museum collections, including the Musée du Quai Branly, British Museum, and Australian Museum.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 29.53 in (75 cm)Width: 12.8 in (32.5 cm)Depth: 1.78 in (4.5 cm)
  • Style:
    Tribal (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Wood,Hand-Carved
  • Place of Origin:
    New Caledonia
  • Period:
    19th Century
  • Date of Manufacture:
    19th century
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. normag age traces.
  • Seller Location:
    Bilzen, BE
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU10361246027042

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