Bâton de combat, Maori, Nouvelle-Zélande

Collection privée, Angleterre 

Excellent condition overall. The neck ornament is very well preserved, as are the haliotis eyes. Wear consistent with age and use within the culture.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Chez les Maoris, tirer la langue constituait un geste de défi rituel adopté par les guerriers en signe d’affrontement. Cette iconographie caractérise les bâtons de combat taiaha : la tête de tiki Janus qui les couronne est représentée bouche ouverte, la langue tatouée en guise de pointe.

Remarquable par la précision des motifs en volutes gravés en champlevé, ce taiaha illustre aussi, par la beauté des ornements conservés, l'art de la guerre chez les Maoris : les incrustations en haliotis signifiant les yeux et la parure très finement ouvragée témoignent de son importance symbolique et rituelle.