Description:

Oceania, New Zealand, Maori, ca. 20th to early 21st century CE. A lovely wooden canoe bailer known as a tata or tiheru, expertly carved to speedily and efficiently extract water from the canoe. The finial of the handle is sculpted in the form of a Manaia - a mythological creature in Maori culture typically depicted as a combination of a bird, man, and fish, though sometimes including a seahorse or lizard. The Manaia is traditionally believed to be the messenger between the earthly world of mortals and the domain of the spirits, and its symbol is used as a guardian against evil. Intricately formed the bailer features a shallow basin with a shovel-like rim on one side and a tubular handle, all adorned with scale-like motifs and mother of pearl inlays and sitting atop 4 petite feet. Size: 18.5" L x 9.6" W x 4.3" H (47 cm x 24.4 cm x 10.9 cm)

A similar Maori canoe bailer hammered 50,000 euros at Christie's Paris on November 22nd, 2017 (lot 22, Live Auction 15050, "Arts d'Afrique et d'Oceanie").

Parts from certain animal species including nacre shell may require an additional license upon import into another country due to legislation relating to endangered species and environmental conservation. If you are not sure whether CITES?rules apply to your item, please see the CITES Appendices.

Provenance: private Monroe, Connecticut, USA collection

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#189193

  • Condition: Small chip to one side and chipping to feet, as well as some nicks, abrasions, and surface wear as shown. Otherwise, intact and excellent with smooth surfaces, good remaining detail, and light patina to areas.

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November 9, 2024 10:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000