The Role of Kinikini in Fijian Warfare

The Kinikini was primarily used by chiefs. It was used to direct their troops and also as a shield in battle. In Fijian warfare, combatants would often begin by throwing a salvo of Ula (projectile clubs) at the opposing side before engaging in close-quarters combat. The paddle shaped club served as an effective shield against these projectiles. Chiefs typically commanded from the rear and avoided direct combat. If however, if needed, the cutting edges of the broad, flat blade were used to “cleave a man down,”. This was noted by Wilkes (1845:343), much like a culacula (another type of Fijian weapon).

The Kinikini was also carried by Fijian priests during certain religious ceremonies.  Clubs of great chiefs carried the mana of that chief and priests preserved these clubs almost as dieties.

Variations in Design

Kinikini clubs vary in size, generally ranging from 95cm to 125cm in length. The handle of the club often flares at the bottom to prevent slipping, especially in wet conditions. Additionally, the lower quarter of the club is sometimes adorned with hound’s tooth carvings for both grip and aesthetic appeal.

The blades of Kinikini clubs are often elaborately decorated, with many painted in vibrant colors or adorned with white burnt-coral cement to highlight the carvings. While much of the original paint has faded with time, traces of color can still be observed on some older clubs.

The Value of a Kinikini

The value of a Kinikini varies widely, typically ranging from $5,000 USD to over $30,000 USD, depending on factors such as condition, provenance, the detail of carving, wear from use, and overall form. Larger, broader clubs are generally more valuable, though the design of the blade plays a crucial role in determining its worth.

As the property of a chief, many Kinikini clubs were carved by skilled Tongan artisans, further increasing their prestige and value.