Austral Islands Ceremonial Paddle with Intricate Carvings

An Austral Islands ceremonial paddle, of elegant elongated form with a slightly concave teardrop-shaped blade, a raised central ridge which leads to a slender shaft terminating in a circular hilt with, originally, eight protruding ancestral faces (some losses). Richly decorated with vignettes of alternating interlocking geometric and abstract patterns meticulously carved in low relief across the entire surface. Intense dark-brown patina. The balance and symmetry convey a sense of harmony and grace making these Austral Islands paddles highly sought-after works of Art. Signs of significant repairs to the blade of paddle. Provenance: from the collection of Keith St Cartmail. Length 110 cm