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Superb Waka Huia, prestigious carving displayed throughout the…
Auction House:
Auction Location:
Auckland
Date:
8-Sep-2011
Lot No.
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Description:
Superb Waka Huia, prestigious carving displayed throughout the entire form of the vessel. Complex triple haehae patterns are interlaced with fine graduating pakati (dog tooth notching). The base is guarded by two opposing tiki which offer accentuated swept back foreheads and complex top-knots. The entire tiki forms are finely detailed with each extending the tongue back into the base form of the wakahuia. The overall carving style suggests both purposeful balance and organic symmetry. Recently repatriated from England the vessel appears to have been Europeanised at some stage of its life with a hinge and lock being fitted. These fitting have subsequently been removed. The liberal European practice of embracing the 'primitive' aesthetic and adopting it to a western function was uncommon at the turn of the century. This fine example was clearly created by a highly skilled master carver - the journey of the wakahuia has been a long one and it is wonderful to see it has made is back to Aotearoa. Height 9 cm. Width 39.8 cm. Depth 9.3 cm.
Estimate:
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Price:
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Category:
Unclassified