Cali (ceremonial weapon)

item details

NameCali (ceremonial weapon)

ProductionRoyal Soldiers and Ex-Servicemen's Association; creating agency; 2003; Fiji

Classificationceremonial weapons

Materialswood, metal

DimensionsOverall: 150mm (width), 620mm (length), 30mm (depth)

Registration NumberFE013033

Credit lineGift of Royal New Zealand Returned and Services Association, 2015

Overview

This is a cali, a spurred and bladed wooden club. It is a type of weapon used by Fijian warriors in the 19th century. Cali were typically large and heavy and made from dense timber of the vesi tree. They are one of several forms of indigenous Fijian weaponry still made in 21st century and used as ceremonial objects or sold as souvenirs for the tourist market. This example is decorated with geometric patterns and features a turtle motif on its blade. It has been modified to be used as a presentation piece.

Significance

This cali is part of a small collection of objects from the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services Association (RNZRSA) that represent important facets of the associations history and work, including relationships with kin organisations in Fiji and the Cook Islands, and the N.Z. Home Servicemen's Association. It was given by the Royal Soldiers and Ex-Servicemen's Association of Fiji to the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services' Association in 2003. A small metal plaque on the weapon is inscribed: 'A gift from the RSESA of Fiji to the RNZRSA / 87th Annual Conference 2003'. It was part of the RNZRSA's collection in its Head Office in Wellington before it was donated to Te Papa in 2015.