Context (References)
Probably based on the paoa, a short hand club, with bifacial pommel, related to threputu-type clubs of Aotearoa New Zealand,
cf Steve Hooper (ed) 2021 Power and Prestige: The art of clubs in Oceania. Skira and Fondazione Giancarlo Ligabue, Venice, fig 18, p. 45
Event Date 13/5/2025
Author: rachel hand

Description (Physical description)
Modern circular label with metal edge notes ' No Number. Easter Is? 2 ceremony objects'
Event Date 13/5/2025
Author: rachel hand

Description (Physical description)
Short hand club with flared ends and rounded head, incorporating facial features on one side. With prominent arching eyebrows, deep-set eyes inlaid with pearl shell and wooden peg pupils, straight nose and open mouth. Line designs around mouth and eyes, possibly referencing tattoo designs.
Carved in hardwood. Pierced at base for coconut fibre cord. Diagonal and X-designs at base.
Event Date 13/5/2025
Author: rachel hand

Description (Labels & Markings)
Attached cloth label noted 'Deposit/ ?New Zealand/ A von Hügel'.
Written on the other side 'Not Maori probably modern Easter Is work' signed 'H.D.S' [Henry Devenish Skinner]
Event Date 13/5/2025
Author: rachel hand

Description (Labels & Markings)
Modern label notes 'Peter Gathercole says probably modern Easter Island. N.B. Eye not paua shell'.

Event Date 13/5/2025
Author: rachel hand