A Fine Maori Oraters Paddle Polynesian Art from New Zealand C.1900

This fine old Maori Oraters Paddle is beautifully decorated over the entire paddle with deeply incised designs; the most prominent part being the front of the paddle blade which depicts two stylized Ancestor Figures and below the largest figure is a partial Manaia figure which is a mythological creature in Māori culture. There are inset pearl shell eyes on the figures and a few other areas of the paddle as seen in the photos.

The back of the paddle blade has two distinct designs;  Koru is a spiral shape based on the appearance of a new unfurling silver fern frond at the top and bottom areas and another design that I think might be kowhaiwhai; a Maori house rafter patterns in the middle section of the back of the paddle blade.

The shaft of the paddle is fully incised with Koru and other design elements and ending with a Manaia or birds head.

I am not an expert on Maori designs and I would be happy to hear if I am incorrect.

Maori artists made some of the most beautiful artworks ever made by human beings.

The Paddle comes on a nice custom made so that it can be displayed on the floor or on a table

Provenance: The Todd Barlin Collection of Oceanic & Polynesian Art

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