Description:

Oceania, Melanesia, Solomon Islands, ca. 19th century CE. A ceremonial wooden spear displaying a long, slender shaft surmounted by a thick hexagonal spearhead that tapers to a rounded point. Each facet of the head is inlaid with nacre - also known as mother-of-pearl or pearl shell - arranged in serrated geometric panels, a hallmark of Solomon Islander craftsmanship. The dark, lustrous patina of the wood suggests it may have been treated or varnished to emulate ebony, a highly valued material. The combination of intricate shell inlays and a blunt tip indicates this piece was created as a prestige object, likely ceremonial or intended for use in ritual dances rather than combat. Size: 71.5" L x 1.5" W (181.6 cm x 3.8 cm); 72" H (182.9 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-collection of Joseph Salamanca.

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#195698

  • Condition: Losses to nacre inlays. Some abrasions and chioos to wood, but otherwise good condition.

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

Artemis Fine Arts

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$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
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