A fine 18th century greenstone mere. Dark green with a little pale mottling and some black flecks. Classic form with five ridges on handle end above hole for thong attachment. Fine edged blade has some small chips. Kawakawa variety of nephrite. Lovely broad spatula form. Provenance: Purchased at Webb's in 2004, Lot 423. Previously purchased London 1955 ex Ken Webster by owner's father. Ex Webster collection No. 1516 (reputedly) from Ngato Porou, Wairoa. (Reputedly) used in 1870 Poverty Bay Massacre according to Webster in a note (not extant) to owner's father. Length 36.5 cm. Width 11.2 cm