UNUSUAL HUMAN/ ZOOMORPHIC HANDLE, EASTER ISLAND?

Origin:  Unknown, Possibly Easter Island    (Provenance: Published San Francisco Exhibition Catalog "Aberrations and Oddities", page 40, 2005.  Collection of Dave DeRoche, Piedmont CA)

Period/Date: Circa 1880-1920

Materials:  Hardwood, Obsidian

Description:  This unusual and inventive carved handle has a slot in the bottom and is presented on a custom metal stand.  It features a pig's head (?) the body of which transitions into a human face.  The obsidian inset eyes coupled with the Easter Island-like face suggests that island as the possible origin.  Its composition is quite lovely and it was clearly made by a skilled artisan.  Its use and function is unknown but appears to be a transitional piece from the late 19th century.  What is known is that it is clearly old and has acquired a dark rich patina from age and handling.

Dimensions:   Length 6"  (15.5 cm), Width 2.5"  (6 cm)

Price:   SOLD