Kanak Prestige Axe, New Caledonia

Charles-Wesley Hourdé, Paris
Abraham Rosman and Paula Rubel, New York, acquired from the above in May 2008

Gi okono (axe), or Nbouet were among the most highly prized objects for the Kanak people of New Caledonia. They were used in ceremonies and as emblems in warfare, and served as symbols of individual chiefs. It is believed that these objects are illustrations of the Kanak vision of the Cosmos. 

This janiform gi okono bears a striking nephrite plaque fitted and tied to a baton. The fiber cords that are used to fix the stone are wrapped around the rod and extend to the base. The faces at the top of the piece, while not extremely detailed, bear the deeply set facial features and oval face reminiscent of central and southern Kanak masks.