Monumental Neolithic Greywacke Toki Blade with Handle on Stand

Originates from: Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Era: 12th - 9th Century BCE

Dimensions: 15" H x 7" W x 3" D

Intensely beautiful and sculptural Greywacke stone adze with incorporated carved handle, from the Neolithic era, Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Dating between the 12th and 9th Century BCE, but likely passed down ancestrally, as the inscriptions on the front and back side of this piece are more recent. A collector marking also present on the verso. As beautifully designed and carved as it is a perfect utilitarian object. As much a stunning sculpture as it is a culturally significant piece of Oceanic heritage. 

Provenance: the very famous Jolika Collection, John and Marcia Friede - most of which has been donated to the De Young Museum in San Francisco, making up the museum's core collection.