Tao

Tao. Spear. This is a carved tao made of pau (manilkara wood). The tao is dark grey in colour with a smooth unpolished surface. The handle of the spear is fairly short and cylindrical in shape. The handle then flares to a three-sided spear head. The spear head is ornately carved with triangular indents made at varying angles around the spear head. This carving not only doubles as a unique decorative feature but also ensures the most damage when used on an opponent. The tip of the spear head is blunt and shows signs of damage. The short shaft of the tao suggests that it may have been used in stealth as a stave in close combat.

Other Name

Spear (English)

Place

[Samoa]/Pacific

Accession Number

1927.49

Accession Date

31 Mar 1927

Other Id

10663 (ethnology)

Department

Pacific