Makana

236. An early club retaining much of its original cotton binding. Mid 19th century.

Guyana.

13cm tall. 11cm x 5cm at the base.

 

Macanas were carved from specially chosen hardwood that could deliver a death-dealing blow. The surfaces were highly polished then lightly incised with figurative or (as with this example) geometric motifs.
The clubs were prestigious and treasured possessions used in dance and ritual as well as for fighting.