RARE MAORI BATTLE AXE PATITI, 19TH CENTURY

14 1/8” length, of characteristic form. Oval section hardwood haft thinned in the grip area for better purchase, with traditional curvilinear decoration each side. The butt with traditional swell and pierced for a wrist thong. The head made of two heavy iron plates with a riveted joint. All examples that we were able to find were mounted with European trade heads. This example is entirely Maori made. As the Maori have no metalworking tradition, the fabrication from steel plates produced the desired result within the maker’s capability. The bit is skillfully formed, tapering in thickness from the middle to the edges. Uniform dark ageing throughout. All examples are rare and this one is possibly unique.