Description:

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, Sepik River region, ca. 19th to mid-20th century CE. A robust wooden mallet or striking implement, carved with a powerful crocodile head finial at one end. The elongated club-like body tapers to a rounded tip, suggesting this was likely used as a beater for a slit drum (garamut), an instrument central to ceremonial life in the Sepik River cultures. The surface shows a rich, dark patina from long handling and use, and the carved reptilian head - complete with incised teeth and projecting eyes - serves as both a symbolic protector and an artistic flourish, embodying the region's deep connection to the crocodile as a totemic spirit. Size: 22.5" L x 2" W (57.2 cm x 5.1 cm)

Provenance: private Denver, Colorado, USA collection, acquired in the 1960's

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#195711

  • Condition: Old inventory label written in black ink on the surface. Lustrous and smooth patina from use and touch. Abrasions and chips, but otherwise intact and nice condition.

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July 25, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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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 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000