Description
Fine and rare New Zealand Maori Tokotoko (walking stick). The cane of long tapered form with integral finial carved as a Maori chief. The figure head with Maori tattoos across face with well carved features and hair. The cane carved from one piece of timber all the way though to the terminal. An excellent piece of Maori history, this particular piece would most likely have been used for trade and carved to sell for other commodities during the mid-late 19th century.
Notes | A Tokotoko is a traditional Maori carved ceremonial walking stick. On a marae (courtyard of a Maori meeting house) it is a symbol of authority and status for the speaker holding it. Poets from New Zealand who win the award of New Zealand Poet Laureate are presented with a Tokotoko, typically by a National Librarian of New Zealand.
Measurements | 92cm High x 4.5cm Wide x 5cm Deep (36.2 x 1.7 x 1.97 Inches)
Condition | Excellent, beautiful patina from years of handling. Antique nail in the bottom of the stick, unlikely to be original.
