Māori blade Toki or Adze, presented to Sir Cyril Newall New...

Hammer

£580

Māori blade Toki or Adze, presented to Sir Cyril Newall

New Zealand
Argillite
28cm long

This finely crafted blade toki or adze is believed to be shaped from dark green argillite, featuring a rectangular form with bevelled edges and a weathered poll, indicating significant traditional use. Believed to be 19th century

Historical Provenance:

Believed to have been presented to Sir Cyril (1941–1946) during a formal Māori gathering, this toki symbolises Māori craftsmanship, leadership, and the tradition of high-status gift exchange. Such tools were essential for waka (canoe) and wharenui (meeting house) construction and often became treasured taonga (sacred artifacts)

Condition:

Wear commensurate with age.

Keywords:

Taonga, Maori, New Zealand, Staff, Paddle, Hoe, Pendant, Axe, Club, Weapons, Pounamu, Greenstone, Nephrite, Jade, Kawakawa, Kahurangi, Inanga, Tangiwai, Paua Shell, Abalone, Lord, Sir, Cyril, Newall, Wellington, Auckland, Oceanic, Raharuhi Rukupo, Patu Onewa