Gallery Label
New Caledonian clubs traditionally were nonfigural, whether used for warfare or ceremonial use. The carved clubs represented locally specific styles in shape and carving technique, but all were similarly simple. It was believed that wood sculpture and carving had power, and clubs gained additional power through successful warring expeditions. Successes in war brought resources and prestige to the warrior, and, in turn, the weapon gained prestige and power. This weapon also could have had a ceremonial use, meant for display by prominent men in the community. Because such clubs also were traded and moved between communities in New Caledonia, it is difficult to identify an exact place of origin.