18th century
Length 76"
Provenance: Reuben Ruebens, London
Private collection, Maine
Norman Hurst, Cambridge, MA
This taiaha is a traditional Māori weapon, a long, wooden staff used in close-quarters combat in New Zealand. It's a sophisticated weapon, combining the features of a spear, paddle, and staff, and is still used in traditional Māori martial arts. The taiaha is not just a weapon but also a symbol of Māori culture and identity, representing their history, values, and connection to the natural world. A truly exceptional example with red trade cloth and horse hair.
Publication: Polynesia - The Mark and Carolyn Blackburn Collection, Honolulu, 2010 pp 354 #505
18th century
Length 76"
Provenance: Reuben Ruebens, London
Private collection, Maine
Norman Hurst, Cambridge, MA
This taiaha is a traditional Māori weapon, a long, wooden staff used in close-quarters combat in New Zealand. It's a sophisticated weapon, combining the features of a spear, paddle, and staff, and is still used in traditional Māori martial arts. The taiaha is not just a weapon but also a symbol of Māori culture and identity, representing their history, values, and connection to the natural world. A truly exceptional example with red trade cloth and horse hair.
Publication: Polynesia - The Mark and Carolyn Blackburn Collection, Honolulu, 2010 pp 354 #505
