Māori Greenstone Pendant (Hei Tiki), New Zealand

Christie's, London, July 4, 1989, lot 40
The Masco Collection of Oceanic Art, Detroit
Sotheby's New York, May 17, 2002, lot 343, consigned by the above
Jan Krugier, Monaco, acquired at the above auction

The Kimbell Museum of Art, Fort Worth, Texas, Island Ancestors: Oceanic Art from the Masco Collection, September 24 - December 4, 1994; additional venues:
Honolulu Academy of Arts, Honolulu, February 2 - March 26, 1995
The Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit, June 11 - August 6, 1995
North Carolina Museum of Art, Raleigh, March 9 - May 5, 1996

Allen Wardwell, Island Ancestors: Oceanic Art from the Masco Collection, Detroit, 1995, pp. 208-209, fig. 83

Very good condition for an object of this type and age. Shell inlay of proper right eye lost as shown in catalogue illustration. Minor marks, nicks, scratches, abrasions and wear consistent with age and use, and inclusions in the stone. Very small chips and wear around edges. An old hole worn through at the top of the head, and pierced a second time near proper left eye as shown in catalogue illustration. Crusty material around shell inlay. A very small hairline crack through thin central element below the torso. Exceptionally fine rubbed, worn surface from a long period of handling in situ, with encrustation.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.