Ball Headed Ula

Place of Origin: Fiji

Date: c.1800

Overall Length: 16 3/4”

Ref #1007

Description:

This Fijian throwing club or ula has an exceptional patina and is very good condition; its significant age is very clear.

The club has a large ball or coconut shaped head, with natural crevasses in the head. This type of head often displays inset human teeth, presumably trophies from the victims of these clubs. The grip on the handle is carved with parallel zig-zag lines (tavatava), to allow the warrior to grasp the club firmly before throwing it.

Such clubs were carved from the buttress roots of ironwood saplings. They were worn by warriors in their waistbands and then thrown, with great precision, at the skulls of their assailants. The ulas were known for their speed and accuracy.