Description:

**Originally Listed At $400**

Oceania, Melanesia, Vanuatu, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A lovely example of a hand-carved wooden taro root pounder, of naturally serpentine form, that is covered in lustrous, smooth layers of russet and espresso-hued patina. The body of the tool features a gradually widening profile until terminating at the convex beater head, and the handle bears protruding ringlets that increased the user's grip. The tip of the handle features several incised striations that radiate out from its center, and the tail ends in a gently forked tip. Size: 20.8" L x 1.6" W (52.8 cm x 4.1 cm)

Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)

PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.

#142256

  • Condition: Chips to tail end, with a few stable hairline fissures to handle, tail, and body, and wear around beater head commensurate with age and use, otherwise intact and very good. Fantastic patina and smooth surface textures throughout.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Bidder Can Make Shipping Arrangements, Local Pick-Up, In-House Shipping

December 29, 2025 10:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer’s premium, as outlined below, and any applicable taxes and shipping.
Buyer's Premium
$1 - $249,999:
32.50%
$250,000+:
27.50%

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 + $500