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Lot 25:
Not sold
Description
A hand-carved wooden figure in the Maori tekoteko style, depicting a crouched ancestral guardian. The figure is carved from a single block of dark-stained hardwood, featuring traditional surface ornamentation including pakati (notched) and pitau (spiral) patterns across the torso, limbs, and face. The head is elongated with a high, rounded forehead and stylized facial features. The eyes are formed by two circular, polished shell inlays, exhibiting a pale iridescence consistent with mother-of-pearl or light-colored paua shell. The figure holds a separate wooden staff, modeled after a traditional taiaha, which rests diagonally across the body. The carving terminates in a rectangular plinth base. The wood surface has a high-sheen polished finish. No maker’s marks, signatures, or geographic labels are visible on the exterior or underside of the piece. A small circular void is present in the wood at the center of the lower torso between the legs, appearing to be a natural knot or opening in the timber used for the carving.
Condition report:
The carving is in good condition with the separate staff intact and secure. The wood finish is uniform with minor dust accumulation in the deeper recesses of the carvings (photo 1). A natural knot or void is visible in the wood between the figure\'s legs (photo 2). The shell eye inlays are intact and flush with the wood surface. No chips, cracks, or significant abrasions are visible on the figure or the base.
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