“o Kono” Monstrance Axe

Culture: Kanak, New Caledonia
Date: 19th century (circa 1850-1900)
Materials: Polished serpentine blade, wooden handle, plant fiber braiding and bindings (probably sennit), coconut husk.
Dimensions: H. 41.5 cm; W. 18 cm

Description

Ceremonial axe composed of a large, circular blade of greenish serpentine, carefully polished. Attached vertically to a handle covered with plant fiber braiding forming decorative cross-hatching, the bulbous base is bound with bindings and extended by several long, hanging braids. Beautiful, even patina and traces of age.

Function

Ceremonial object, emblem of prestige reserved for Kanak chiefs. Used during customary ceremonies, exchanges, and speeches. Instrument of symbolic power, not intended for martial use.

Condition

Good condition: well-preserved blade, some normal peripheral micro-chips; old ligatures and fibers still solid, uniform patina.

Comparisons
• Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac (Paris): similar examples in serpentine.
• Musée de Nouvelle-Calédonie (Nouméa).
• Sotheby's, Christie's auctions: comparable examples sold in the range of €8,000–20,000.

Market estimate

For a 41.5 cm, well-proportioned example in serpentine:
• Auction house: €8,000–15,000
• Specialized gallery: €12,000–20,000