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Extremely rare long Strike Patiti Paraoa (hatchet), the iron…
Lot No.
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Description:
Extremely rare long Strike Patiti Paraoa (hatchet), the iron blade with no makers mark is of the type known to have been traded by the British navel contingencies during the early 19th century, the shaft is created from dense marine ivory, possible sperm whale, the use of such prestigious material suggests this was a weapon created for a warrior of great mana. Masterfully crafted the Patiti Paraoa was an extremely effective weapon against horse mounted opponents. A number of Gustavus von Tempsky paintings depict the use of such weapons in open ground battles, the shaft is wedge fitted into the head of the axe and tappers through to a flared grip line which then terminate into a soft tip, the overall patina suggest great age and significant use with the marine ivory stained heavily at the top of the neck nearing the blade and the lower portion of the shaft well worn and smooth. Although iron blades were coveted for their utilitarian value once used in battle such blades could never again be used for any other purpose other than fatal combat, late 18th early 19th century. Length 109 cm. Width 15.6 cm
Estimate:
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Category:
Tribal: New Zealand Maori