Malaita Supe fighting club

Solomon Islands, 19th Century
Length: 75 cm
 
Provenance: Private Collection, UK
 
 
A fine example of traditional Supe fashioned in highly polished ironwood, with the short shaft widening into an elegant slightly concave diamond shaped blade, and a raised rib in the shape of a cross on either side. 
 
The Supe is a traditional fighting club used by the people of the Malaita, in the Solomon Islands. It is a symbol of both cultural significance and martial tradition. Typically made from hardwood, the Supe is known for its unique diamond shape and short shaft and would have been used for both combat and ceremonial purposes.