KANAK, New Caledonia. Wood, bark bast, coconut fibres, serpentine stone. O Kono" or "green headache" axe with a circular wooden handle covered in tapa held together by fibre ties and attached to a serpentine blade with marbled reflections. This ceremonial object is a sign of power and prestige and is reserved for the chief or eldest elder of a village. Late 19th-early 20th century. Length: 56 cm. Size of the stone: 19.5 x 16 cm. Small chips and missing pieces. Provenance: Private collection, Yvelines.