- 5
Tongan War Club, Kingdom of Tonga
Estimate
6,000 - 9,000 USD
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Description
- whale bone & wood
- Length: 40 1/4 in (102 cm)
with two small inlaid pieces of Sperm Whale (Physeter macrocephalus) tooth.
Provenance
Presumably Anthony Ralph, London
Allan Stone, New York, acquired from the above on February 4, 1985
Allan Stone, New York, acquired from the above on February 4, 1985
Condition
Very good condition for an object of this rare type (ivory inlays) and great age. Minor marks, nicks, scratches and abrasions consistent with age and use. Minor age cracks including to the large end of the club, on reverse of the side with top most ivory inlay. Very small chips in relief decoration. Scratches to ivory. Small indentation about halfway down the shaft, probably inherent in the wood as relief carving follows contour. Exceptionally fine dark reddish-brown patina with residue in crevices. Integral "loop" at bottom end of club worn down.
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.
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.