Massue de guerre, îles de Samoa, Polynésie occidentale

fa'alaufa'i, de type classique. La tête de section triangulaire est sculptée d'une série de pointes de diamant disposées de part et d'autre d'une nervure centrale, évoquant une feuille de bananier (lau signifie feuille et fa'i, banane). Le manche poli et cylindrique se termine par un pommeau muni d'un appendice en relief, percé d'un trou de suspension. Belle patine nuancée, brun orangé. Le manche a conservé deux des bagues en fibres de coco qui le décoraient à l'origine.

Good condition overall. Wear consistent with age and use within culture. About six plant fibre bands missing (note slightly faded areas on shaft). Some white paint flecks to finial.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

cf. Carlier ([2005] : 123, n°151) pour un exemplaire de taille et de style comparables.