Ceremonial Paddle
Austral Islands, 19th C.
PROVENANCE: Paul Baus Collection, Kent, Ohio; acquired from L. Sunde, Ethnografica Gallery, Copenhagen, in 1965.

This ceremonial paddle was probably never used, in a physical sense, as an actual canoe paddle. Instead decorated paddles, such as this one, were used for ceremonial purposes. These paddles are the most well-known objects from the Austral Islands. The entire surface is carved in minute detail. The design features stylized squatting human figures, linking arms and legs. At the top of the handle are heads with protruding eyes.

Height: 28.75 in.
IN 10-14-13 / SOLD