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A rare and important Pak? (rain cape). One of the rarest and…
Sale Title:
Auction House:
Auction Location:
Auckland
Date:
17-May-2021
Lot No.
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Description:
A rare and important Pak' (rain cape). One of the rarest and finest examples to be seen anywhere in the world. This particular example was removed from New Zealand immediately following the 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera by American lecturer Dr. A Fairbrother. He was known to have one of the finest collections of Maori korawai, carvings, and clubs in the world. After Fairbrother left New Zealand following the eruption, the cloak was included in a tour of the USA in 1888. It is likely the cloak was collected much earlier than the Tarawera eruption as they were no longer in use at the time. The cloak was subsequently repatriated to New Zealand where it has been held in the private collection since. Due to the utilitarian nature of the pak' very few examples remain to this day, and perhaps none as fine as this. Double pair twining with robust plaited finish at the top. One original tie still present. Exposed surface beautifully thatched with precise rows of flax leaf. Pre contact period. Height 97 cm, width 133 cm
Estimate:
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Price:
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Category:
Unclassified