Axe blade; probably Lake Sentani, Papua New Guinea, 19th century.

Axe blade; probably Sentani Lake, Papua New Guinea, 19th century.
Jadeite.
Measurements: 22 x 7.2 cm.

Axe blade carved in jadeite. This type of axes are integrated in rituals of ancestral cult in ceremonial occasions and special celebrations. They are publicly displayed and some special forms are even worn as can be seen in this set. What is particularly interesting in New Guinea are the rules and techniques for quarrying the rock, which is only found on one mountain. The quarry is a sacred and secret place that only selected clansmen enter and mine.