Aboriginal club
Date1850-1950
Object number00055506
NameClub
Mediumwood
DimensionsOverall: 730 × 75 × 35 mm, 469 g
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection
DescriptionAn incised Indigenous club featuring a rounded head with incised decorations and bands of triangular markings on the upper shaft.
HistoryThe club was an important and versatile tool used over most of Australia, mainly for hunting and combat but also in dances and ceremonies. Both men and women used them as they were also important food gathering and preparation tools.
Clubs varied across Australia in design, material and uses. They could be used as throwing implements - to stop a fleeing animal or enemy, or as a weapon for close contact combat. Women used clubs as dogging sticks in food gathering and they were also part of ceremonial practices.
Clubs varied in shape and designs that were incised along the shaft to reflect the owner’s community and country.
SignificanceTraditional equipment for hunting, fishing and warfare were also highly versatile tools in the gathering and processing of food. Able to be carried long distances, these implements were an important part of a practical and ceremonial life.
1850-1950
1850-1950
