**Originally Listed At $350**

South Pacific, Fiji, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden tapa beater with four faces - one of which features incised vertical grooves that further aided in the pounding process - and a tubular handle, all presenting in a rich hue of mocha. Tapa is a type of bark cloth that is made in the South Pacific Islands, mainly Tonga, Samoa, and Fiji, but also as far afield as Hawaii and New Zealand. The cloth is of great social importance and is often given as a gift; however, prior to the introduction of synthetic fabrics, it was also used for everyday wear. Tapa was also introduced to the western world in the late 18th century by Captain Cook's first expedition, where it was collected under the direction of Joseph Banks and brought to Europe. Size: 14.125" L x 2" W (35.9 cm x 5.1 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 to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#141424

Expected nicks/chips and abrasions, commensurate with age and use. Otherwise, very nice with a warm patina.