Kanak Puzzle
New Caledonia
Carved wood with dark... Lot 47
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Kanak Puzzle
New Caledonia
Carved wood with dark patina
19th century
Height: 82 cm.
Length of beak: 34 cm.
Provenance: Mackie Collection, Paris, Nouméa
Mackie Collection, Paris, Nouméa
The name generally used to designate these clubs, gö-poropwä-rä-märü in the Paicî language, refers to the center of Grande Terre. Our object has the stylistic characteristics of a stylized "bird-head" puzzle, distinguished here by the extreme finesse and length of its beak. It takes the form of a long handle with a circular cross-section, the upper end of which is curved at a right angle and carved in the shape of a tapering point, evoking a bird's beak. Sculpted in the extension of the beak, with finesse and subtlety, a crest falls to the back of the neck. The eyes are represented by two bulging protuberances. The bird represented is thought to be the cagou, a species with a crest of feathers on the back of its head. It is also accepted that in certain regions, the representation could suggest the beaked head of the hawksbill turtle, the object being referred to in the Houailou language as 'goc-goc'. The stylization and purity of these puzzles are enhanced by the glossy brown patina with bronze highlights, obtained by the application of fern leaves wrapped in tapa or bat fur.
The finesse of these creations would indicate a ceremonial rather than military use. Reserved for chiefs, these prestigious objects affirmed their owner's wealth and status, and were choice gifts for ceremonial events.
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