A RARE WHALE BONE MAORI TAIAHA 19TH CENTURY the slender tina...

Hammer

£14,000

A RARE WHALE BONE MAORI TAIAHA
19TH CENTURY
the slender tinana (body) flattened at one end with a smooth blade or rau, the finely carved upoko (head) with a face on each side both inlaid with pāua shell eyes and a protruding arero (tongue) carved in spirals, parrallel grooves and dog tooth pattern notches; unknown carver
147 cm long                                                  

PROVENANCE: The Collection of the Late George Withers (1946-2023)

NOTE: The taiaha is traditional Maori weapon most commonly found in wood but also more rarely in whale bone. Used ‘hand to hand’ it’s use as a parrying and striking weapon was synonymous with traditional forms of Maori combat. More commonly seen in whale bone is the kotiate (short hand club)

Please note: if you are purchasing this lot it will require CITES certification to export it from the UK to a foreign country as it contains organic material.  It is the purchaser’s responsibility to research shipping restrictions and to apply for any certifications required.

More Information

Overall condition is very good. The natural fleck of the whale bone has – over time – collected dirt in the natural ‘pores’ of the bone. In some areas and particularly below the upoko, there are multiple lines or natural fissures that have also attracted dirt from handling. There are some minor chips and a slightly larger indent on the edge of the blade but relatively minor. There are scratches overall. The p?ua shell inlays have natural fissuring. Overall condition is well-aged and patinated. There is slight curvature along the length.