Lot 2
  • 2

Viti Throwing Club (Ula), Fiji Islands

Estimate
3,000 - 5,000 USD
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Description

  • wood, whalebone
  • Length: 21 in (53.3 cm)
with star shaped inlays carved from Sperm Whale (Physeter macrocephalus) at top and bottom; inscribed "H.901" in white pigment on the side.

Provenance

James T. Hooper (1897-1971), Arundel (inv. no. "H.901"), acquired from Dundee in 1934
By descent from the above through the Hooper family
Christie's London, June 19, 1979, lot 107
Wayne Heathcote, New York
Maureen Zarember, New York, acquired from the above
Allan Stone, New York, acquired from the above on July 15, 1981

Literature

Steven Phelps, Art and Artefacts of the Pacific, Africa and the Americas: The James Hooper Collection, London, 1976, pp. 204 and 430, pl. 117, cat. 901

Condition

Good condition overall for an object of this type and age. Marks, nicks, scratches and abrasions consistent with age and handling. Minor hairline age cracks throughout. Black stains to shaft. Plastic label affixed to ivory element in bottom end of the club. Remnants of adhesive from another old label. Wedge-shaped restoration to surrounding wooden edge of top ivory element. Very fine glossy medium brown patina. Inscribed "H.901" in white pigment on the side.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.