moto (Spear)

Spears were used as weapons in warfare, which traditionally occupied an important place in Fijian culture. Spears were also used in ritual dancing.

Said to have been purchased by Mr. Bond from A.M. Brodziak, Ltd, in Fiji.

warfare; ceremonial

Dark brown wood spear, round in cross-section, with the shaft tapered to the butt. Large elongated pyramidal point is square in cross-section with the wood perforated near the joint with three holes in the shape of flattened ellipses 4 cm. long. Point is joined to the shaft with an end-lap joint, heavily bound, encrusted with dirt, and broken in several places. Several bands of plant fibre are 33.5-55 cm. from the point end. Broken 75 cm. from the butt end and bound with cotton cord.