Protected Objects Act 1975
* Please note that a number of taonga in this catalogue have been Y Registered under the Protected Objects Act (1975). Under the terms of this act, to purchase any Y registered item you must be a registered collector. Any taonga tūturu registered under this act may not be sold to non-New Zealand residents nor leave the country without the explicit written consent by Manatū Taonga -Ministry of Culture and Heritage
To become a registered collector, you must apply to the Ministry of Culture and Heritage. For further information on Y registration and registered items in this catalogue, contact our specialist team
Webb's 4 May
50 A Collection of Pre-European Wooden Tools, Aotearoa
Early selection of Pre-European tools displayed to represent an archaeological swamp-found cache. Two patu muka with well-formed, bulbous handles and flattened pounding surfaces sit below a larger agricultural digging tool/spade. Spade presents with a finely-formed handle terminating at opposing ends with well-formed knob and flared blade. Largest L515 W80 D25mm, on stand H725mm. Y21900. Y21516. Y21514. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,200 — $1,500
51 An Assemblage of Stone Tools, Aotearoa
A collection of pounamu tools and woodworking adze. Fully provenanced with label and ink inscriptions, this assemblage is presented as an archaeological tool cache. With worked pounamu blades and polished chisel section, this museum grade display is presented on a custom-made archival stand that's been designed to highlight the various stone-working techniques of the early Māori. Largest L170 W73 D23mm on stand H180 . Y1076. Y21555. Y21742? smallest. Y21555. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,200 — $1,600
5 2024 Webb's
A hafted adze. Carved with a figure with wheku head with inset pāua eyes, the handle inlaid with pāua discs and terminating in a carved wheku head. With the original pounamu adze blade. With twisted muka binding securing the blade to the head. L360 W62 D310mm. Y22467. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,500 — $2,500
91 A Toki Poutangata, Aotearoa
Webb's 6 May
est $2,500 — $5,000
115 A Whalebone Kotiate, Aotearoa
A hand club with traditional lobed blade. With a handle terminating in a carved wheku head to either side. Drilled suspension hole at the handle. The bone is cream coloured with dark mottled grain throughout. L261 W103 D7mm. Y22517. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
7 2024 Webb's
1
Matau (fishhook) of large proportions. Fine archaic shark hook made from whalebone. With well-formed lashing snood and incurved point, this one-piece U shaped hook is a testament to early Māori bone work. Reminiscent of archaic examples found on the Chatham Islands. Presented on a museum grade stand. L67 W49 D11mm, on stand H81mm. Y1599. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,000 — $1,400
2 A Mau Kaki
Early Māori shell pendant in the form of an imitation shark-tooth. Archaic style notching down both side laterals terminating with a fine point. Two suspension holes countersunk to topside. Presented on a museum grade stand. See Te Papa Tongarewa (ME005423) for a similar example. L46 W23 D1mm, on stand H63mm. Y13844. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $450 — $650
A Matau, Aotearoa
Pendant, Aotearoa
Webb's 8 May
A tail feather from the extinct huia bird. Huia feathers were highly valuable and exchanged for other valuable goods and symbolised mana and prestige. The last confirmed huia sighting was in 1907 in the Tararua Ranges. L205 W45mm. Y16453. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $2,000 — $3,000
18 A Huia Feather, Aotearoa
9 2024 Webb's
Webb's 10 May
11 2024 Webb's
est $250 — $500
100 A Model Sailau Outrigger, North Coast Papua New Guinea
The model canoe is made with a wood hull and outrigger. Three laka (booms) connect the hull to the milo (float). The canoe features three masts made from coconut fibre ilo (sails) in a crab claw form. The exterior hull is decorated with carved geometric patterns that have been burnt to create a black pigment. H570 W235 D665mm
Webb's 12 May
125 A Hand-Carved Bird, Pitcairn Islands
Carved from miro wood. The current population of Pitcairn Islands is 47 people. These people are descended from the nine mutineers from the British ship HMS Bounty and Tahitian companions. This bird is an excellent example of the woodworking still of Pitcairn Islanders. The bird has inlaid glass eyes and is mounted on a wood and metal stand. Collection number '85.169'. H150 W255 D340mm
est $200 — $400
6 Ko Te Kawenata Hou A New Testament Bible
1844. Ko Te Kawenata Hou O to Tatou Ariki Te Kai Wakaroa A Ihu Karaiti. A leather bound new testament bible written in te reo. 360 pages. Marked on the inner cover 'Watkins Binder'. Several pages in this bible are filled with hand-written cursive te reo Māori in black ink. This bible was found in the Gate Pā region under a house. L185 W114 D30mm
est $700 — $1,000
13 2024 Webb's
147 A 4th-3rd Millennium
Indus Valley is a Bronze Age civilisation that was located in the north-western region of the Indian subcontinent, consisting of what is now mainly present-day Pakistan and Northwest India. At its peak, the Indus Civilisation may have had a population of well over five million people. Made from a buff and red clay in a flattened ovoid shape. The vase has detailed hand-painted designs in abstract forms with a ring of fish around the opening. H260 D420mm
est $2,000 — $4,000
96 A Large
4th-3rd millennium BCE. Indus Valley is a Bronze Age civilisation that was located in the north-western region of the Indian subcontinent, consisting of what is now mainly present-day Pakistan and Northwest India. At its peak, the Indus Civilisation may have had a population of well over five million people. H100 W145 D185mm. Provenance: Private collection, Sweden
est $1,000 — $2,000
BCE Vessel, Harappa Culture, Indus Valley
Bronze Age Bull Figure, Harappa Culture, Indus Valley
Webb's 14 May
112 A Ceremonial Stone Adze, Western Province, Solomon Islands
Late 19th century. Carved and ground from a single stone. This adze head would have originally been lashed to a wood handle. The circular blade features open work in the design of a face, which would have been a laborious task. L212 W125 D25mm
15 2024 Webb's
est $300 — $400
est $400 —
157 A Dan Blacksmith Bellows, Ivory Coast
These wood bellows would have been laid horizontally and the two tubes at the bottom were used to concentrate the air pumped in from the two chambers which would have had goat skin over them. Mounted on a metal base. H865 W470 D200mm
Webb's 16 May
$800
98 A Gongshi Scholars Stone, China
17 2024 Webb's
On an ornate custom wood stand.H590 W160mm
est $500 — $1,000
Webb's 18 May
19 2024 Webb's
71 A Luba Kifwebe Mask, Democratic Republic of Congo
Kifwebe masks are used in initiations and played a role in establishing order in society. They were also used to cleanse the village from benevolent spirits. The kifwebe masks are an orbicular shape. This example has a large nose which continues as a ridge along the forehead up to the crown. The eyes are large almond shapes with thin slits for the wearer to see. Incised concentric bands echo around the eyes and are detailed with white kaolin pigment. The inside of the mask shows chisel marks from the carver's tools. Mounted on a metal and wood stand. H290 W291 D185mm
est $1,700 — $2,300
78 A Songye Ceremonial Axe, Democratic Republic of Congo
Ornamental axes such as this were often symbols of power for rulers. This wood carved handle has a pommel at the end depicting a head. The head bears many features of human depictions seen on Songye art such as rounded temples, a square jaw, down-turned almond eyes, and metal studs that likely represent scarification. At the blade end of the handle is another face representing a Kifwebe mask with a rounded forehead, square jaw, and protruding lips. L445 W60 D235mm, on stand H475mm
est $600 — $1,200
Webb's 20 May
70 A Kongo Nkisi N'Kondi Power Figure, Democratic Republic of Congo
Nkisis are vessels for supernatural forces that can be summoned to the physical world. The figure is a free-standing male with arms akimbo. Carved from wood with dense black pigment, white kaolin pigment at the sandals, and glass eyes. The figure has some 43 nails hammered into the figure, which have since rusted. Deep lacerations represent ribs and raised rings represent upper arm adornments. This figure has likely been handled many times as evident on the discolouration in pigment on high touchpoints. Mounted on a wooden stand. H480 W170 D165mm, on stand H530mm
est $2,500 — $3,500
144 A Quimbaya Pottery Seated Slab Figure, Colombia
Quimbaya culture, c. 4th to 7th century BCE. Made from earthenware. A slab built form depicting a seated figure with one hand raised in the air. A pierced septum with gold ring. The figure wears a string of clay beads. Drilled holes through the forehead The eyes and mouth are long horizontal slits. H335 W270 D120mm
est $2,000 — $3,000
21 2024 Webb's
Webb's 22 May
Lots
1 A Matau, Aotearoa
Matau (fishhook) of large proportions. Fine archaic shark hook made from whalebone. With well-formed lashing snood and incurved point, this one-piece U shaped hook is a testament to early Māori bone work. Reminiscent of archaic examples found on the Chatham Islands. Presented on a museum grade stand. L67 W49 D11mm, on stand H81mm. Y1599.
Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,000 — $1,400
2 A Mau Kaki Pendant, Aotearoa
Early Māori shell pendant in the form of an imitation shark-tooth. Archaic style notching down both side laterals terminating with a fine point. Two suspension holes countersunk to topside. Presented on a museum grade stand. See Te Papa Tongarewa (ME005423) for a similar example. L46 W23 D1mm, on stand H63mm. Y13844. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $450 — $650
3 A Matau Hook, Aotearoa
Early one-piece Māori fishhook in marine mammal bone. This matau has been formed with singular internal barbs to both shank and point. Shank section displays finely notched tab for lashing, small notch to lower side. Presented on a museum grade stand. L31 W22 D5mm, on stand H42mm. Y21607? Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $450 — $650
4 A Poi Awe, Aotearoa
A percussion instrument. Exceptionally rare example of the Māori poi. Reminiscent of the kurī poi awe but with tufts of muka rather than dog fur, this poi is constructed with what appears to be the 'knotless netting' weaving technique (see Te Papa Tongarewa ME000150). With pāua 'eyes' woven into decorative fibre tringles, this museum grade example is filled with natural processed kiekie (for similar eyes, see Te Papa Tongarewa ME000481). Displayed on a museum grade stand designed to safely reflect the kinetic nature of the poi. L80 D70mm, on stand H220mm. Y20464. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $600 — $1,000
5 A Mau Kakī, Aotearoa
Extremely rare surviving example of pre-European Māori adornment. Large quantity of the deep-seal dentalia shell beads have been painstakingly restrung and hung on a museum grade display stand. Sometimes associated with burials, dentalia necklaces were highly prestigious with most known examples residing in institutional collections. This collection shows significant age and evidence of being underground. on stand H510mm. Y14201. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $600 — $800
6 Ko Te Kawenata Hou A New Testament Bible
1844. Ko Te Kawenata Hou O to Tatou Ariki Te Kai Wakaroa A Ihu Karaiti. A leather bound new testament bible written in te reo. 360 pages. Marked on the inner cover 'Watkins Binder'. Several pages in this bible are filled with hand-written cursive te reo Māori in black ink. This bible was found in the Gate Pā region under a house. L185 W114 D30mm
est $700 — $1,000
7 A Kete Muka, Aotearoa
Kete decorated with natural and tānekahadyed muka. Fringed edges and muka handle ties on each side. 240 x 280mm (excluding handle). Y22519. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,500 — $3,000
8 A Tea Cosy, Aotearoa
Constructed from muka fibre, the tea cosy is presented in the form of an inverted kete. Semi-circular in shape and lacking a handle, this tea cosy is surrounded by a fine processed fringe. H320 W470mm. Y09669.
Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,000 — $2,000
9 A Kete Muka, Aotearoa
Kete decorated with natural, green, yellow, and tānekaha-dyed muka with central whakairo pattern. Fringed edges and muka handle ties on each side. 240 x 290mm (excluding handle). Y22518. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,500 — $3,000
10 A Patu Aruhe, Aotearoa
This pounder is used for beating rauaruhe fern down to extract the edible flesh from the fibres to make textiles and rope. With a bulbous body, tapered handle, and slight bulb flare. H70 W320mm. Y08522.
Provenance: Private Collection, Aotearoa. Previously of The Wagner Museum. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $300 — $600
11 A Patu Aruhe, Aotearoa
This pounder is used for beating rauaruhe fern down to extract the edible flesh from the fibres to make textiles and rope. With a bulbous body and split to smaller bulb. H70 W290mm. Y08521. Provenance: Private Collection, Aotearoa. Previously of The Wagner Museum. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $300 — $600
12 A Patu Aruhe, Aotearoa
This pounder is used for beating rauaruhe fern down to extract the edible flesh from the fibres to make textiles and rope. With a bulbous body, a slender handle and a slightly flared smaller bulb. H80 W340mm. Y08520.
Provenance: Private Collection, Aotearoa. Previously of The Wagner Museum. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $300 — $600
13 A Māripi Pounamu Knife, Aotearoa
A nephrite knife. Archaic pounamu knife blade with suspension hole. This early blade, likely employed as a flax working tool, has a very rare double-incised suspension hole. Later, as Māori became more adapt at working the hard pounamu, holes were drilled rather than cut. Both side laterals display a series of fine notched decoration that is usually reserved for the earliest settlement period. Cutting/ scraping edge sharp and intact with the proximal end displaying four large notches for suspension. See Te Papa Tongarewa (ME004943) for a similar example. Presented on a museum grade stand. L55 W36 D5mm, on stand H75mm. Y21202. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,000 — $1,500
14 A Large Hei Tiki, Aotearoa
An early Māori pounamu tiki of chiefly proportions. This hei tiki displays a masterful level of workmanship, deep inset eyes, head tilted aggressively to the left, and a protruding ribcage. A matt-like patina envelops the taonga that has been worked from dark green pounamu. The style of this early tiki suggests that it was constructed from an adze that had reached the end of its working life with its straight sides and slight taper to legs. This large rare example with well-worn countersunk suspension hole is presented on a museum grade stand. H110 W60 D15mm, on stand H150mm. Y13748. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $11,500 — $16,000
15 A Tangiwai Pendant, Aotearoa
Superb ear pendant in tangiwai/bowenite used/representative of tears. Displaying with extremely high translucency, this bowenite pendant originates from one of two small deposits in the Milford Sounds area. With countersunk suspension hole, soft patina and tapering sides this chiefly example would grace the finest of collections. Presented on a custom museum grade stand. L70 W19 D7mm, on stand H105mm. Y. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $400 — $700
16 A Waka Hoe, Aotearoa
Carved from a dense native hardwood. With a lanceolate blade and a long slender shaft that terminates in a knob. The knob has upper and lower haehae whakairo designs with inner pākati notches. Lacquered a rich brown colour. L1380 W165 D45mm. Y22670. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,500 — $2,000
17 An Inlaid Portrait Table Attributed to L. J. Fox
Made with native timbers. A circular top table with inlaid design of a Māori man in profile with huia feather, tā moko, feather bundle earring, kākahu. H550 D600mm
est $1,000 — $2,000
18 A Huia Feather, Aotearoa
A tail feather from the extinct huia bird. Huia feathers were highly valuable and exchanged for other valuable goods and symbolised mana and prestige. The last confirmed huia sighting was in 1907 in the Tararua Ranges. L205 W45mm. Y16453. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $2,000 — $3,000
19 A Māhē Stone Sinker, Aotearoa
An oval shaped stone, with brown speckled marks, and a semi-circular mid section groove. H50 W165 D55mm. Y16554. Provenance: Private Collection Aotearoa. Acquired from Webb's, March 2013. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects act (1975). To purchase this piece, you will need to be a registered collector of taonga tūturu.*
est $400 — $700
20 A Māhī Sinker, Aotearoa
Rare variant of the māhī or fishing sinker. With fully pecked circular body and protruding lashing snood, this well-worked example shows the incredible skill of the stoneworker. Sometimes with holes drilled to the top, this example would have been placed inside a small net-like structure lashed around the well-formed snood. Presented on a museum grade stand. L70 D58mm, on stand H90mm. Y15407. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $300 — $500
21 A Large Punga, Aotearoa
A fine example of an early punga anchor stone. With an "X" type design for lashing and fixing. This rare anchor stone has a pecked reduction on all sides. Punga of this size were used for small river and lake going waka. Presented ona. museum grade stand. Found in the Rotorua Lakes region. Y22601. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa.
This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $700 — $1,000
22 A Pā Kahawai Fishing Hook, Aotearoa
Contact period Māori trawling lure. This lure has been produced with a traditional pāua shell flasher, hardwood shaft, and processed flax bindings/rope. Below the hook hangs a flasher from early trade wool and a section of blonde hair. Fishhooks were incredibly important pieces of equipment, and transitional examples of these offer a fascinating glimpse into the mixing of cultures and ideas. L95 W16 D22mm, cord L515mm, on stand H110mm. Y16134. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa.
This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $400 — $800
23 A Mako Taringa, Aotearoa
Shark tooth ear pendant. Early Māori ear pendant in the form of a very large mako shark tooth. Decorated to the upper section with trade sealing wax, this tooth is a beautiful example of transitional/ contact period adornment. Presented on a museum grade stand. L50 W33 D15mm, on stand H60mm. Y17167. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa.
This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $350 — $660
23 2024 Webb's
24
A Pā Kahawai Fishing Hook, Aotearoa
Early contact period Māori trawling lure. Fashioned from an old trade-nail, this taonga has been traditionally manufactured with pāua-shell flasher and muka bindings. To the lower binding, remnants of bird feather (likely kiwi) teasers are observed. Māori were quick to adapt to the "new world" and the tools/materials that came with it. Fishhooks and bird spears were incredibly important pieces of equipment and transitional examples of these in iron and bronze offer a fascinating glimpse into the mixing of cultures and ideas. L100 W16 D33MM, on stand H115mm. Y16982. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $400 — $800
25 A Tuki, Aotearoa
Mouthpiece for calabash. Carved wooden mouthpiece for a taha huahua (gourd container). Taha huahua were fashioned from dried and hollowed gourds and were used to hold preserved birds. Being highly prized and beautifully decorated, they were used as prestigious presentation vessels at feasts or given to important guests. This tuki is in the final stages of production with the adzed centre requiring further reduction. Dog-tooth notching with double haehae adorns the panels surrounding the outside with several in the final stages of carving. Wood likely tōtora. H125 D145mm. Y16174. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $400 — $800
26 A Pounamu Toki, Aotearoa
An early Māori woodworking adze made from pounamu. A highly polished surface area. Losses at the poll and blade suggest that it was used. Presented on a museum grade stand. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $300 — $500
27 A Carved Base for a Post, Aotearoa
Mid to late 19th century post base adorned with four wheku figures; one to each face. Surrounding each wheku is a series of pākati and haehae notched/incised decorations. With very few examples remaining, this is an especially desirable example with all faces fully decorated and a period section of metal lining the inside. Owing to its smaller size, this example is likely from a small whare or meeting house. H90 W250 D220mm. Y10926. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $200 — $400
28 A Pā Kahawai Fishing Hook, Aotearoa
A pā kahawai (trawling lure) with fine twisted muka binding. Pāua shell inlaid into the native timber body terminating in a robust whalebone hook barb. H105 W12mm. Y13148. Provenance: Private Collection Aotearoa. Acquired from Webb's, November 2010. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,000 — $1,500
29 A Māhī Stone Sinker, Aotearoa
Made from a greywacke boulder. There is a wide groove around the central circumference. With a label attached that reads 'In grass on hut terrace c. +150 ft on North Side Peach Island Harb. Coll JWG June 56'. H80 W150mm. Y14037.
Provenance: Private Collection, Aotearoa. Acquired from Webb's, June 2010. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $150 — $250
30 A Large Matau Fishing Hook
Carved from native wood. A large 'U' shaped form with one internal shank. Braided muka lashing. L158 W115 D30mm. Y Number Pending. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $3,000 — $5,000
31 A Finely Carved Wooden Tobacco Pipe by Thomas Heberley
With double tāne figures joined by a feather-like structure displaying a series of fine notching. Adorned with the words 'KIA ORA' to the left and right side respectively. Figures in a prone position with bent arms and extended legs. Gold capped rim and ferrule. The collar is marked 'Christeson, 9.C G.PP'. L95 W35 D115mm, on stand H145mm
est $1,500 — $2,000
32 A Flaked Obsidian Core, Aotearoa
High-grade obsidian core with flake scars to all surfaces. Likely used as a moa butchering blade or similar, this early pressure flaked core is of the finest quality stone. Marked 'Kaupokonui 52'. Presented on a museum grade stand. L120 W95 D80mm, on stand H140mm. Y1568.
Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $450 — $600
33 An Early Carved Smoking Pipe, Aotearoa
Early carved smoking pipe with tiki decoration to bowl face and finely notched decoration to all other wooden surfaces. Fully hallmarked silver collar and Bakelite stem. Collar is marked 'STG. Silver'. Presented on a museum grade stand. H40 W28 D160mm, on stand H65mm. Y16150.
Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $400 — $600
34 A Kete Muka, Aotearoa
19th century. In both dyed and natural fibre, this kete displays with substantial broad fringe, two intact handles and traditional weaving to body. An extremely fine example of contact period flax work. L440 W300 D4mm. Y15449. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $500 — $1,000
35 A Woven Sample of a Kete Muka, Aotearoa
Early muka fibre in the complex process of being woven into a kete or similar. Likely left unfinished deliberately, this very rare textile displays the weaving techniques employed when producing large kete. With few surviving examples in this partially worked state, this taonga offers an important glimpse behind the weaving scenes. L270 W150 D16mm. Y15448. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $100 — $200
36 A Woven Sample of a Kete Muka, Aotearoa
Early muka fibre in the complex process of being woven into a kete or similar. Likely left unfinished deliberately, this very rare textile displays the weaving techniques employed when producing large kete. With few surviving examples in this partially worked state, this taonga offers an important glimpse behind the weaving scenes. L440 W820. Y16148. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $250 — $450
37 A Mutu Kākā, Aotearoa
Early 19th century bird snare perch in orthodox form. Made from a single piece of wood, this robust example has been left largely undecorated. Mutu kākā were used primarily in hunting parrots which were an important food source to early Māori. Native birds, such as kererū, kākā, and tūī were greatly valued by the Māori as sources of food, bones for tools, feathers for prestigious ornaments such as cloaks, or pets, hence bird catching was considered as a revered activity. The mutu kākā, or bird snare perch, lured birds by way of a looped snare connected to the device, attached to a tree branch and baited with berries. When a bird alighted on the perch, the looped snare was tugged, trapping the bird against the upright and preventing it from flying away. Presented on a custom museum grade stand. H240 W290 D52mm, on stand H255mm. Y22145. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $800 — $1,000
38 A Trade Axe, Aotearoa
Early wooden Māori adze handle with a European trade style blade. Blade lashed to well formed socket with natural fibre, shaft masterfully curved for use. Entire piece lacquered in antiquity as was common by both museums and collectors alike. Rare transitional example. L387 W53 D170mm, on stand H200mm. Y15437. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $500 — $1,000
39 A Tatā, Aotearoa
An extremely rare pre-European waka bailer. A fine, swamp-recovered waka bailer in fragmented form. A rich, soft patina covers both the body and handle section which was broken in original use and potentially laid to rest in a swamp once it had reached the end of its serviceable life. Crafted from a single piece of wood, bailers were often produced with the handle inverted overtop of the scoop section to form a functional and compact tool. Presented on a custom museum grade stand. Body H35 W260 D65mm, handle H45 W75 D57mm, on stand H165 D245mm. Y18325. Y18312. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $800 — $1,200
40 An Early Teka, Aotearoa
A footrest from a kō digging stick with fine swamp patina. Usually only seen in institutional collections, the teka formed an imperative part of the early kūmara cultivation toolkit. Fashioned from one robust section of hardwood, this pre-European example has a fine lashing snood and up-kick to prevent the foot from slipping. Sometimes elaborately carved, teka were also used by priests to bless the harvest and ensure a bountiful crop (see British Museum collection: Oc.1283). With its rich dark swamp patina and recovered in the Taranaki region, this teka presents an incredibly rare chance to acquire a seldom seen but incredibly important piece of early Māori history. L120 W130 D30mm. Y22602. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,000 — $1,500
41 A Prestigious and Chiefly Taiaha, Aotearoa
Superb taiaha with kurī fur adornment and broad striking blade. This taiaha with its fine upoko has fully decorated eyes, raised and incised mouth has an aggressively protruding and decorated tongue. The upoko terminates into an extremely scarce tauri or collar. This traditional muka tauri has been carefully wrapped in trade cloth and lush thrums of chiefly kurī fur hang below. During the early settlement/contact period, Māori would often use any material available to adorn weapons and cloaks; such was the prestige it held. The red strip in this tauri is reminiscent of an English soldier's tunic and is likely to have served as a warning. Broad striking blade and traditionally formed shaft. L1390 W68mm. Y5741.
Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $9,000 — $12,000
42 A Chert Pigment Bowl, Aotearoa
Large and heavy high-grade chert concretion with flake scars surrounding a central bowl. Reputedly originating from the Whangārei Harbour area, this large pigment bowl would likely have been used to produce the red ochre for staining carvings or tattooing inks. A fine early example of chert working. H85 W305 D270mm. Y14007. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $500 — $1,000
Webb's 24 September
43 A Stone Toki, Aotearoa
Early Māori woodworking adze in what appears to be a fine-grained basalt. Tapering laterals display flake scars along full length and terminate in a sharp, intact blade. Blade shows minor signs of use. Slight pole taper at butt end with squared pole. Moderate polish to all surfaces. Presented on a museum grade stand. L124 W47 D14mm on stand H60mm. Y21690.
Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $450 — $650
44 A Stone Toki, Aotearoa
Large woodworking adze. Argillite adze of massive proportions with finely pecked and polished body. Steeply flaring laterals terminate into an intact and sharp blade. Slight poll reduction with flake scars to underside. Smooth, even polish to all surfaces. Presented on a museum grade stand. L262 W70 D33mm, on stand H245mm. Y12405.
Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa
est $700 — $1,000
45 A Stone Toki, Aotearoa
This early adze or chisel in a fine-grained stone is a prime example of early Māori stone-working. With a low-grade polish that covers all faces, the pole is flaked and reduced for a lashing. The body terminates in a sharp blade with flake scars from the manufacturing process. This toki is likely from the earliest settlement period with comparative examples being recovered from the 'moa hunter' period sites. Presented on a custom museum grade stand. L200 W33 D28mm, on stand H130mm. Y21647. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $350 — $450
46 A Patu Aruhe, Aotearoa
Large and early fern root beater in orthodox form. With a well-formed handle that terminates in a flared knob, this large example displays with an unusually broad striking surface. Enveloped in a rich dark patina, all surfaces show signs of use. This taonga was likely swamp stored as was the traditional way to preserve wooden objects. In the early days when swamps were drained for farmland, swamps gave up scores of long lost taonga with everything from complex carved panels to digging sticks surfacing. The high level of preservation this piece displays lends itself to be one of these recovered taonga. Presented on a museum grade stand. L365 D100mm on stand H315mm. Y21891. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $800 — $1,000
47 A Collection of Woodworking Toki and Worked Wood, Aotearoa
Three early woodworking adzes with intact blades and reduced pole sections for attachment hang delicately over a scarce section of pre-European woodworking. Worked timber, in the form of a paddle rough-out, shows clear signs of adze work and swamp storage. This museum-quality display expertly and artistically tells the story of pre-European woodworking. Y0315; Y21527; Y21701; Y1795. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,500 — $2,000
48 A Patu Rākau, Aotearoa
A striking club. Early transitional wooden patu rākau with large spatulate blade. Reminiscent of the kotiate, this patu displays with a substantial flared blade and narrow adzed handle. Rich dark patina to all surfaces. Likely mid 19th century (see Te Papa Tongarewa (ME001105/1) for a similar transitional handle). L320 W120 D30mm. Y16256. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $800 — $1,200
49 A Pairing of Argillite Toki, Aotearoa
Early and rare archaic examples of hogback adze rough-outs. Produced in dark argillite, these adzes are the grandfathers of Māori stone working technology. With raised backs and an elongated form, the hogback has become synonyms with the earliest settlement period. Displayed on a museum grade stand to represent an adze cache. Moreover, adzes were left in a deliberately unfinished state and stashed for later use/ finishing as seasonal hunting grounds changed. Largest L 260 W68 D77mm, on stand H294mm. Y21542; Y21552. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).* Y21552
est $850 — $1,000
50 A Collection of Pre-European Wooden Tools, Aotearoa
Early selection of Pre-European tools displayed to represent an archaeological swamp-found cache. Two patu muka with well-formed, bulbous handles and flattened pounding surfaces sit below a larger agricultural digging tool/spade. Spade presents with a finely-formed handle terminating at opposing ends with wellformed knob and flared blade. Largest L515 W80 D25mm, on stand H725mm. Y21900. Y21516. Y21514. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,200 — $1,500
51 An Assemblage of Stone Tools, Aotearoa
A collection of pounamu tools and woodworking adze. Fully provenanced with label and ink inscriptions, this assemblage is presented as an archaeological tool cache. With worked pounamu blades and polished chisel section, this museum grade display is presented on a custommade archival stand that's been designed to highlight the various stone-working techniques of the early Māori. Largest L170 W73 D23mm on stand H180 . Y1076. Y21555. Y21742? smallest. Y21555. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,200 — $1,600
52 A Large Pounamu Toki, Aotearoa
Early Māori greenstone adze with sharp blade and well polished body. Large scarf scar to true left lateral where adze was cut from larger block using the "Saw and Snap" method. Adze shows heavy signs of use and potential heat-treatment to blade area. Overall, a textbook example of early Māori pounamu workmanship. Presented on a museum grade stand. L175 W48 D20mm, on stand H61mm. Y22088. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,200 — $1,500
53 A Hogback Toki, Aotearoa
An early Māori toki in hogback form. From the early settlement period, this adze has a finely flake-scarred body and pole. An expertly reduced section for attachment formed on the butt section with a sharp and intact blade at the distal. Presented on a museum grade display stand. L181 W30 D30mm, on stand H148mm. Y18012. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $550 — $800
54 A Pounamu Toki, Aotearoa
Early Māori adze in light green pounamu. With tapering sides and well-polished faces that terminate in a sharp and intact blade, this toki is of larger proportions for its style. Presented in a custom museum grade stand. L140 W70 D18mm, on stand H62mm. Y14146. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $500 — $700
55 A Minnow Lure Shank, Aotearoa
Early Māori trawling lure in dark slate with countersunk drilled 'eyes' to proximal end. Early notched decoration adorns this scarce and desirable example on all edges. Butt end appears to be in the early stages of reworking having likely been damaged from use. Owing to the high-end notched decoration, it's possible this early example was worn as a talisman or used for ceremonial purposes. L80 W12 D10mm. Y17157. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $300 — $500
56 A Pounamu Adze, Aotearoa
Finely worked adze in pounamu. Ground and polished on all surfaces, this early example was found at the important South Island site, 'Murdering Beach' in the 1880s. Small stone-drilled indent speaks to the likelihood this adze/scraper was destined to become a pendant. Fine translucent pounamu. L69 W23 D4mm. Y16167.
Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $300 — $500
57 A Marker Stone, Aotearoa Scarce Marker Stone. Produced in fine-grained basalt, this museum grade marker stone has been produced from what appears to be an early adze. Close inspection confirms this piece has been deliberately snapped at the mid-section to form a base with a spiral decoration hammer-dressed into the butt end. Marker stones like this were used to define boundaries or mark sacred, tapu places and are very rarely seen. L95 W75 D27mm. Y17174. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $150 — $300
58 A Stone Toki, Aotearoa
Early Māori woodworking adze in finegrained argillite. Cutting edge sharp and intact, triangular profile and rounded pole. Presented on a museum grade stand. L105 W42 D25mm, on stand H70mm. Y21688. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $300 — $500
59 A Stone Toki, Aotearoa
Superb toki. Early Māori toki with welldefined pole reduction from lashing to handle. Early hammer dressing to reduced section and high grade polish to all other surfaces. Blade sharp and intact, of larger proportions. Presented on a museum grade stand. L165 W62 D21mm, on stand H188mm. Y21706. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa.
This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $500 — $700
60 A Stone Toki, Aotearoa
Early Māori woodworking adze in dark argillite. Tapering laterals terminate in a sharp and intact blade. Blade shows signs of use. Slight pole reduction at butt end for attachment to handle. Highly polished to all surfaces. Presented on a museum grade stand. L116 W44 D15mm, on stand H59mm. Y21695. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $350 — $550
61 A Kwele Mask, Gabon
This mask is used in the Beete society's rite of passage initiations. The Beete society promotes peace and maintains social order of the Kwele. This is an example of a rare Kwele mask with vertical horns representing an antelope rather than a representation of a ram with downwards curving horns. The mask features a square jawline and arched brow. Large almond eyes feature thin slits for the wearer to see out of. Coloured with natural black pigments. H510 W180 D130, on stand H650mm
est $1,200 — $2,200
62 A Grebo Mask, Liberia
The inclusion of multiple eyes signifies the gift of clairvoyance, and the mask formally represents the ability to access the unseen. Grebo masks are recognisable by their flat planes with multiple protruding eyes, square mouth, and use of red and blue natural pigments. This mask has four tubular eyes at the face and a further four eyes rising above the crown of the mask. Six small holes are drilled into the mask for the wearer to see. The mask is densely covered in natural pigments. Mounted on a stand. H490 W190 D135mm, on stand H610mm
est $2,500 — $3,500
63 A Mahongwe Kota Reliquary Figure, Gabon
Consultation with the ancestors was part of all big decision making of Kota community members. Mahongwe figures are representations of these ancestors and were placed in wickerwork baskets that contained the bones of those who have passed. Perhaps one of the most iconic forms in African art, the reliquary figures of the kota are recognised for their symmetrical forms with crescent crowns and open work. These figures are carved from wood and then applied with brass or copper sheets. Wear and discolouration on the applied sheets suggest some age to this piece. Mounted on a wood base. H410 W165 D60mm, on stand H450mm
est $2,500 — $3,500
25 2024 Webb's
64 A Dan Mask, Liberia
This Dan mask is likely a Gunyeya mask, also known as a racing mask. The wearer is pursued by an unmasked runner and, if caught, the unmasked runner then wears the mask and is in turn pursued. The eyes are large open circular holes that allow the wearer uninhibited vision. This mask is carved from wood that has been stained a rich black colour. A heart-shaped form with a delicate nose with a small pierced hole below. At the jaw is an applied raffia fibre beard. Mounted on wood and metal stand. H260 W138 D75mm, on stand H365mm
est $700 — $1,400
65 A Dan Mask, Liberia
Dan masks are distinguishable by their oval faces, concave eyes and temples, and protruding lips. The rough patina, applied with vegetal pigments, suggests that this mask is from the southern region of Liberia. The brow features delicate lines following the form of the mask. The rim of the mask features drilled holes which would have secured the mask to a costume. Mounted on a stand. H240 W131 D80mm, on stand H370mm
est $500 — $800
66 A Dan Mask, Ivory Coast
This Dan mask is likely a Gunyeya mask, also known as a racing mask. The wearer is pursued by an unmasked runner and, if caught, the unmasked runner then wears the mask and is in turn pursued. The eyes are large circular holes that allow the wearer uninhibited vision. Carved from wood, this mask has an oval face with finely carved facial features such as the full lips and short pointed chin. The wood of this mask has a rich, dark brown patina. With applied braided raffia to represent a beard and hair. On custom presentation stand. Mask L260 W145 D60mm, on stand H380mm
est $600 — $1,200
67 An Ambete Reliquary Figure, Gabon/Democratic Republic of Congo
These figures are used to guard reliquary boxes or containers that contain the bones of those passed on. Carved from a single piece of a hardwood, this is a full figure in a squatting form with an elongated torso which creates a rhythmic side profile. The face has an applied brass sheet that has been hammered to create a mouth and detailed framing. Two dome-shaped nails have been applied to create large eyes. The carving has multiple encrusted layers of palm oil which would have been applied to purify the figure. Mounted on a wood base. H385 (on stand) W95 D88mm
est $1,800 — $2,400
68 A Fang Reliquary Carving, Gabon
These reliquary head carvings were produced with complimentary boxes which were filled with magical resources. The carvings are depictions of ancestors and were used to help guide descendants in times of need. The heads were anointed with palm oil that is rubbed into the wood, acting as a purification for the ancestor carving. The reliquary has a large rounded forehead and crown that slopes down to an elongated chin with protruding mouth. The eyes are made from brass in almond forms that have been nailed to the carving. The head has a peaceful and caring expression. Sits in a bespoke wood stand. H480 (including stand) W165 D140mm
est $1,200 — $2,200
69 A Fang Reliquary Figure, Gabon
In Fang society, each family would have a byeri (reliquary box) in which the bones of the ancestors were kept. The byeri were topped by figures which acted as protective guardians. This figure is of a male carved from a single piece of wood with a deep brown lacquer. The figure is seated on a stool and clasps a horn in both hands. Brass rings nailed to the face create an astonished expression in conjunction with a downturned mouth. Mounted on a wooden stand. H630 W150 D145mm, on stand H675mm
est $2,200 — $3,200
70 A Kongo Nkisi N'Kondi Power Figure, Democratic Republic of Congo
Nkisis are vessels for supernatural forces that can be summoned to the physical world. The figure is a free-standing male with arms akimbo. Carved from wood with dense black pigment, white kaolin pigment at the sandals, and glass eyes. The figure has some 43 nails hammered into the figure, which have since rusted. Deep lacerations represent ribs and raised rings represent upper arm adornments. This figure has likely been handled many times as evident on the discolouration in pigment on high touchpoints. Mounted on a wooden stand. H480 W170 D165mm, on stand H530mm
est $2,500 — $3,500
71 A Luba Kifwebe Mask, Democratic Republic of Congo
Kifwebe masks are used in initiations and played a role in establishing order in society. They were also used to cleanse the village with benevolent spirits. The kifwebe masks are an orbicular shape. This example has a large nose which continues as a ridge along the forehead up to the crown. The eyes are large almond shapes with thin slits for the wearer to see. Incised concentric bands echo around the eyes and are detailed with white kaolin pigment. The inside of the mask shows chisel marks from the carver's tools. Mounted on a metal and wood stand. H290 W291 D185mm
est $1,700 — $2,300
72 A Songye Kifwebe Mask, Democratic Republic of Congo
Kifwebe masks are used in initiations and played a role in establishing order in society. They were also used to cleanse the village with benevolent spirits. This mask, carved from a single piece of wood, has a strong, highly-expressive face with its projecting features. The bulbous forehead flows down to an exaggerated square chin. The protruding lips are of a rectangular cuboid form with a small hollowed out cavity. The eyes are almond-shaped with slits for eye holes, with an oversized, exaggerated medial ridge running up to the skull. With woven plant fibre headdress and train lashed to the reverse of the mask, and a beard to the front. Mounted on a wood stand. H1110 (on stand) W230 D470mm
est $1,400 — $2,000
73 A Punu Mukudj Mask, Gabon
A Mukudj mask is a mask that was designed by a member of the Punu to represent idealised female beauty or an ancestor. These masks are often worn during funerals. The coiffure features a central lobe with two flanking tresses with intricated carved detailing lines. The face features scarification at the forehead. The face is pigmented white with kaolin and detailing features are in red and brown pigment. At the back of the mask is an applied wood bar. The person wearing the mask bites down on the bar to keep the mask in position at the face. Mounted on a presentation stand. Mask 330 W160 D120mm, on stand H420mm
est $1,000 — $2,000
74 A Yaure Lomane Mask, Ivory Coast
Yaure are a subgroup of the Baule people of Ivory Coast. This example is a Lomane mask, which is part of the Je grouping of masks worn by dancers at funerals for older men. The lomane masks are noted for their depictions of hornbill birds at the crown of the mask which are said to eat the forms that decompose the body of the deceased. This mask has a very small face with delicate features of a protruding oval mouth with bared teeth, a thin pointed nose, and scarification at the brown and cheeks. The face has been coloured a deep red/brown. Remnants of white kaolin can be seen in the grooves of the hair. The eye have thin slits for the wearer to see out of. Mask L350 W140 D165mm
est $1,000 — $1,400
75 A Baule Mask, Ivory Coast
Baule portrait masks represent ideal beauty standards and are used for entertainment purposes during festivals for dignitaries. This mask is carved from a single piece of hardwood. This mask depicts a female face with small delicate features, a pursed mouth, a long thin nose, and small ears. The hair is arranged into three parts with intricate groove detailing. Intricate raised relief is used to note scarification on the face. Remnants of red pigment can be seen at the lips and eyes. White pigment can be seen at the brow and scarification; this has been worn away due to the repetitive handling. Mounted on a wood stand.. Mask H300 W150 D95mm, on stand H440mm
est $900 — $1,400
76 A Baule Figure, Ivory Coast
Baule figures represent ancestors or usu spirits that populate Baule life, making these figures a reflection of individual devotion. This figure has many of the core characteristics reflected in Baule figures such as arms held tightly to the abdomen, knees slightly bent, and a face of tranquillity. Carved from a single piece of wood. This figure has dense arrangements of scarification on the back, face, chest, and stomach. H440 W75 D80mm
est $700 — $1,400
77 A Fang Bulu Ape Figure, Gabon
The Bulu people belong to the Fang ethnic group and live between Cameroon and Gabon in the Equatorial Forest. Depictions of ape species symbolise the power of divination and protection to the Bulu. This wood carved figure portrays a seated chimpanzee with a large rounded back and arms forward with holding spherical objects. The ape has a surprised and almost happy expression. Deep carving to the sides represent a ribcage. Applied red fabric at the waist and neck decorate the ape. H215 W105 D165mmm
est $500 — $1,000
78 A Songye Ceremonial Axe, Democratic Republic of Congo
Ornamental axes such as this were often symbols of power for rulers. This wood carved handle has a pommel at the end depicting a head. The head bears many features of human depictions seen on Songye art such as rounded temples, a square jaw, down-turned almond eyes, and metal studs that likely represent scarification. At the blade end of the handle is another face representing a Kifwebe mask with a rounded forehead, square jaw, and protruding lips. L445 W60 D235mm, on stand H475mm
est $600 — $1,200
79 A Phemba Maternity Figure, Democratic Republic of Congo
Phemba or Yombe figures were often placed upon shrines to honour ancestral mothers. Carved from a single piece of wood, this figure depicts a woman kneeling with a small child laying upon her leg. The mother is baring her teeth that are filed to sharp points however her expression seems warm. The figure has white kaolin to the torso, and remnants of red ochre detailing. H380 W115 D120mm
est $800 — $1,200
80 A Kongo Figure, Democratic Republic of Congo
Carved from a single piece wood. Depicting a male figure kneeling with a rifle under his arm. The figure features glass eyes and a rich red/ brown patina. H370 W110 D120mm
est $600 — $1,000
81 A Phemba Maternity Figure, Democratic Republic of Congo
Phemba or Yombe figures were often placed upon shrines to honour ancestral mothers. Carved from a single piece of wood, this figure depicts a woman sitting cross-legged with a small child lying in her lap. This particular Yombe figure features heavily detailed raised relief at the shoulders and waist. The mother has glass eyes, full lips, and a tall coiffure. The figure has been stained with a deep red/brown lacquer and detailed in black. Mounted on a wood block stand. Figure H235 W85 D75mm, on stand H280mm
est $1,000 — $1,500
82 A Grebo Mask, Ivory Coast
First crafted by the Krumen people in Sasandra Ivory Coast and Liberia. The inclusion of twelve eyes signifies the gift of clairvoyance, and the mask formally represents the ability to access the unseen. Picasso, who had such a mask in his studio ("Through the Eyes of Picasso" Musee de Quay Branly/Flammarion, 2017, p.190), was reportedly inspired by it to produce his 1912 sculpture Guitar and subsequent cubist works. These masks were often adorned with rooster feathers to the crown to represent hair, and rough hemp cloth at the chin to represent a beard. The mask is carved from a single piece of wood with eyes of blue, white, and red pigments. Mounted on a metal stand. H975 W215 D165mm. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. Previously of a private collection, Johannesburg
est $3,500 — $4,500
Webb's 26 May
83 A Salawku Dance Shield, Halmahera, Indonesia
1950s. A salawaku is a traditional shield from the Maluke Islands. The shield is carved from a single piece of wood in an elongated form of an hour glass, the side profile shows a convex form with a medial ridge. The shield has a blackened wood ground with mother of pearl inlays. On the reverse is a large handle and ridges running down the centre of the shield. L745 W120 D60mm
est $600 — $900
84 A Penis Gourd, Sepik River, Papua New Guinea
Often known as a koteka or a horim. A phallocrypt penis sheath carved from a gourd. This sheath features a canewrapped opening with applied human hair. Cowrie shells decorate the opening and the head of the sheath. H210 D85mm
est $100 — $200
85 A Large Boomerang, Australia
Boomerangs are most commonly known as hunting weapons however they are used in other ways such as percussive instruments, decoys while hunting, and as clubs. This is a large boomerang carved from wood. It features long ridges running the length of the tool. The body has been covered with natural pigments of red and brown. Marked with the collection number 85.298. L670 W58 D10mm
est $300 — $500
86 HAMISH KARRKARRHBA Minih Spirit Pole
2009. ochre pigment on wood. H1750mm
est $1,400 — $2,000
87 A Large Boomerang, Australia
Boomerangs are most commonly known as hunting weapons however they are used in other ways such as percussive instruments, decoys while hunting, and as clubs. This is a large boomerang carved from wood. It features long ridges running the length of the tool and has several piercings throughout the form. L705 W58 D10mm
est $300 — $500
88 A Pounamu Toki, Aotearoa
With highly polished parallel edges, and a sharp cutting edge. With missing chips to blade and two small groves at the upper. H115 W165mm. Y13144. Provenance: Private Collection Aotearoa. Acquired from Webb's, November 2010. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $300 — $600
89 A Tel Halaf Goddess Figure, Anatolia and Northern Syria
Circa 5th millennium BCE. Handmoulded from terracotta in the form of a seated woman with large breasts and hips. Remnants of oxide painted designs bandings. Many scholars believe that these figures represented fertility due to their voluptuous forms. H67 W42 D48mm. Provenance: Ex Artemis Gallery
est $1,500 — $3,000
90 A Pounamu Toki Fragment, Aotearoa
This toki is made from dark green and red streaked pounamu. With grooves that have been worked down to the slightly asymmetrical blade. L90 W65 D18mm. Y14313. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. Acquired from Webb's, June 2010. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $300 — $600
91 A Toki Poutangata, Aotearoa
A hafted adze. Carved with a figure with wheku head with inset pāua eyes, the handle inlaid with pāua discs and terminating in a carved wheku head. With the original pounamu adze blade. With twisted muka binding securing the blade to the head. L360 W62 D310mm. Y22467. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $1,500 — $2,500
92 ERENA WYLIE Tūī and Kaka Feather Cloak
2024. Bicycle inner tubes. 230 x 1020mm
est $600 — $1,200
93 An Axe, Madura Java
The axe strikes a balance between functionality and ornamentation. The butt of the head features a delicately carved bird. Cane wrapping around the head of the tool. A double pommel end. L530 W110 D265mm
est $150 — $300
94 An Ancient Greek Bull Votive
4th century. A cast form of a bull with particularly large testicles. Made with a buff ceramic. Hollow interior. H80 W140 D42mm. Provenance: Private collection, Sweden. Private Collection, Netherlands 1961-1980
est $500 — $1,000
95 An Ancient Hittite Terracotta Votive Bull
2nd century BCE. Made from polished red terracotta cast into the form of a cow. H100 W152 D31mm. Provenance: Private collection, Sweden. Ex A. Faust, Cologne, Germany 1970s
est $800 — $1,200
96 A Large Bronze Age Bull Figure, Harappa Culture, Indus Valley
4th-3rd millennium BCE. Indus Valley is a Bronze Age civilisation that was located in the north-western region of the Indian subcontinent, consisting of what is now mainly present-day Pakistan and Northwest India. At its peak, the Indus Civilisation may have had a population of well over five million people. H100 W145 D185mm. Provenance: Private collection, Sweden
est $1,000 — $2,000
97 A Collection of Four Okimono, Japan
Meiji period (1868-1912). Okimono emerged in the late Edo period, and soon after began to flourish as an artform among metal smiths who lost their jobs due to the Meiji period prohibition of swords. Jizai okimono are articulated okimono with moving aspects. The collection includes a centipede, a turtle, and two beetles. Centepiede L150, turtle L55mm
est $300 — $600
98 A Gongshi Scholars Stone, China
On an ornate custom wood stand. H590 W160mm
est $500 — $1,000
99 A Foo Dog Koro Incense Burner, Japan
Cast from bronze in the form of a lion. The head removes to expose the hollow interior in which in incense is placed. Stamped to the stomach. H160 W105 180mm
est $300 — $500
100 A Model Sailau Outrigger, North Coast Papua New Guinea
The model canoe is made with a wood hull and outrigger. Three laka (booms) connect the hull to the milo (float). The canoe features three masts made from coconut fibre ilo (sails) in a crab claw form. The exterior hull is decorated with carved geometric patterns that have been burnt to create a black pigment. H570 W235 D665mm
est $250 — $500
101 A Ruatangaeo Pedestal Adze, Mangaia, Cook Islands
The ruatangaeo has a pyramidical form. The lower section of the shaft has a sectioned hollow turret. The shaft is decorated with geometrical incised patterns. At the head of the ruatangaeo is a black basalt adze. H420 W75 D190mm
est $1,000 — $1,500
102 A 1930s Handbag, Tonga
A panadus woven base with an over lay of hand-knotted sennit cord. Hundreds of seashells have been strung on the cord. The shells have been arranged to read "TESIA" on one side and the other "ETUA" L370 W275mm
est $150 — $300
103 An Ancient Roman Bronze Bull
6th-5th Century BCE. A bronze weight cast in the form of a seated bull. With a black/brown patina. H45 W45 D22mm.
Provenance: Private Collection, Sweden. Ex Sammlung S. W., Chiemgau 2000s
est $300 — $500
104 An Ancient Greek Bronze Votive Bull
1-2nd century CE. Cast in the form of a bull from bronze. With an oxidised green patina. H45 W9 D43mm.
Provenance: Private collection, Sweden. Private collection Berlin, 1990s
est $300 — $600
105 A Bronze Age Greek Bull Figure
Circa 500 BCE. A hollow bronze cast of a humpbacked bull, Bactrian. The opening on the back would have been for the insertion of a rider figure. H100 W35 D100mm.
Provenance: Private collection, Sweden
est $500 — $800
106 A Ceremonial Stone Hand Club, Western Province, Solomon Islands
Carved and ground from a single piece of stone. A large rounded head that tapers down to a phallic handle. Incised rings run around the shaft. A highly-polished appearance to the dark grey stone. L305 D80mm
est $400 — $500
107 A Stone Pestle, Western Province, Solomon Islands
19th century. Used for grinding foods and plant fibres. These pestles are considered prestige items. This pestle is carved and ground from a single piece of stone. A club-shaped form with a rounded end, with a disc-shaped hand guard. The head of the pestle depicts a face with large wide-set eyes, flaring nostrils, and an open mouth. L310 D70mm
est $400 — $500
108 A Ceremonial Stone Axe, Western Province, Papua New Guinea
Late 19th century. Carved and ground from a single stone. The stone has a brown/grey tone and has been polished with pockmarks present. This adze head would have originally been lashed to a wooden shaft handle. The butt of the adze has a protruding crescent form. H162 W32 D235mm
est $400 — $500
109 A Santa Cruz Basket, Solomon Islands
Woven from thin strips of plant fibre in a plait weave. Featuring the recognisable stylistic black geometric dyed strands on the natural fibre base from Santa Cruz. A collapsible form with square base when folded out. H270 W255 D245mm
est $150 — $300
110 A Te Tanga Archer's Vest, Kiribati
Te tanga are used to protect the central organs and are part of a full bwai ni buaka body armour. This armour is made from densely woven plant fibres making the armour difficult to penetrate. This te tanaga is constructed from a woven central tube with applied supports that tie over the shoulders. L580 W430mm
est $300 — $500
111 A Santa Cruz Basket, Solomon Islands
Woven from thin strips of plant fibre in a plait weave. Featuring the recognisable stylistic black geometric dyed strands on the natural fibre base from Santa Cruz. A collapsible form with square base when folded out. H280 W210 D215mm
est $150 — $300
112 A Ceremonial Stone Adze, Western Province, Solomon Islands
Late 19th century. Carved and ground from a single stone. This adze head would have originally been lashed to a wood handle. The circular blade features open work in the design of a face, which would have been a laborious task. L212 W125 D25mm
est $300 — $400
113 A Ceremonial Stone Hand Club, Solomon Islands
Carved and ground from a single stone, a highly polished surface area. The club has an arched peak running around the tool end, either side is incised with concentric designs reminiscent of a face. L325 W115 D80mm
est $400 — $500
114 A Stone Priest's Club, Rennell and Bellona Province, Solomon Islands
Prehistoric. Carved and polished from a single stone into an abstract form reminiscent of a human body. L295 W165 D50mm
est $400 — $500
27 2024 Webb's
115 A Whalebone Kotiate, Aotearoa
A hand club with traditional lobed blade. With a handle terminating in a carved wheku head to either side. Drilled suspension hole at the handle. The bone is cream coloured with dark mottled grain throughout. L261 W103 D7mm. Y22517. Provenance: Private collection, Aotearoa. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975).*
est $2,500 — $5,000
116 A Large Tuluma Fishing Tackle Box, Tuvalu
Used to keep items dry whilst at sea, or as a storage container on land. Crafted from wood in an ovoid shape with a flared base. H300 W330 D300mm
est $500 — $700
117 A Contemporary Poumanu Mere, Aotearoa
The blade tapers down to the grip and terminates with graduating ribbing. With a pierced hole at the grip. Highly polished appearance. For early Māori, creating weapons and tools from pounamu was a lengthy process of separating fragments from large boulders by continuously rubbing an abrasive back and forth to create a groove that could snap. Mere are one-handed weapons featuring a flat elongated blade with a sharp striking edge. L355 W85 D15mm
est $1,000 — $2,000
118 Te Pō Carved by Steven Tipene Ellis
Ellis (Ngati Te Aute, Ngati Maru) trained under Norman Manly in the early 1980s Te Atatu. Te Pō is the endless night. Te pō originates from Hine-nui-te-po who is the goddess of the night and death. Carved from kauri or tōtara. H700 W560 D140mm
est $1,500 — $2,500
119 A Wood Carved Bowl, Papua New Guinea
Carved from a single piece of wood with an elliptical opening and two projecting handles. Lacquered dark brown with natural pigments. H110 W595 D225mm
est $150 — $250
120 Te Ao Carved by Steven Tipene Ellis
Ellis (Ngati Te Aute, Ngati Maru) trained under Norman Manly in the early 1980s Te Atatu. Te ao means "the light". The rising and the setting of sun in te ao Māori is associated with the life cycle of birth and death. H650 W595 D75mm
est $3,000 — $4,000
121 An Ancient Beaded Necklace, Egypt
From the late period 664-332 BCE. Made from delicate blue faience, clay, and glass beads. Restrung on cotton thread. L350mm
est $500 — $1,000
122 A Pair of Pre-Columbian Ear Spools
Mayan. Made from quartz and worn in the ear lobes. L37 D30mm
est $600 — $1,200
123 An Ancient Beaded Necklace, Egypt
From the late period 664-332 BCE. Made from delicate blue faience and clay beads. Restrung on cotton thread. L310mm
est $400 — $800
124 A Flying Fish Carved by Wallace Warren, Pitcairn Island
Carved from miro wood. The current population of Pitcairn Islands is 47 people. These people are descended from the nine mutineers from the British ship HMS Bounty and Tahitian companions. One wing of the fish reads 'Souvenir From Pitcairn Island', the other reads 'Made by Wallace Warren'. On a wooden stand. H140 W83 D345mm
est $150 — $300
125 A Hand-Carved Bird, Pitcairn Islands
Carved from miro wood. The current population of Pitcairn Islands is 47 people. These people are descended from the nine mutineers from the British ship HMS Bounty and Tahitian companions. This bird is an excellent example of the woodworking still of Pitcairn Islanders. The bird has inlaid glass eyes and is mounted on a wood and metal stand. Collection number '85.169'. H150 W255 D340mm
est $200 — $400
126 A Flying Fish Carved by Sam Young, Pitcairn Islands
Carved from miro wood. The current population of Pitcairn Islands is 47 people. These people are descended from the nine mutineers from the British ship HMS Bounty and Tahitian companions. One wing of the fish reads 'Souvenir From Pitcairn Island', the other reads 'Made by Sam Young'. On a wood stand.
est $150 — $300
127 Tane Carved by Steven Tipene Ellis
Ellis (Ngati Te Aute, Ngati Maru) trained under Norman Manly in the early 1980s Te Atatu. Carved from rimu on a kauri base. H590 W370 D80mm
est $1,500 — $2,500
128 Hei Tiki Carved by Steven Tipene Ellis
Ellis (Ngati Te Aute, Ngati Maru) trained under Norman Manly in the early 1980s Te Atatu. Carved in 2005. Signed to the reverse. H43 W72 D5mm, on cord L232mm
est $400 — $800
129 Tangaroa Carved by Steven Tipene Ellis
Ellis (Ngati Te Aute, Ngati Maru) trained under Norman Manly in the early 1980s Te Atatu. Tangaroa in the Māori god of the sea. Carved from native timber with cow bone inlaid eyes. H480 W500 D60mm
est $2,000 — $3,000
130 A Long-Handled Axe, Lae Region, Solomon Islands
A long wood handle with embedded nephrite stone head. L760 W200 D68mm
est $400 — $600
131 A Club, Solomon Islands
Made of dense, heavy wood with an elegant teardrop-shaped flattened blade with an incised design. A tapering shaft terminating with a geometric pommel. Lacquered a rich, dark brown. L1000 W95 D45mm
est $500 — $600
132 A Tewhatewha, Aotearoa
19th century. A two-handed weapon used in combat. Carved from a single piece of wood, this tewhatewha comprises a long shaft used as the handle and a striking end shaped like a broad axe head known as a rapa. L1463 W211 D27mm. Y21855.
Provenance: Private collection, New York. Previously of Robert Hales, London. This taonga falls under the Protected Objects Act (1975). To purchase this piece, you will need to be a registered collector of taonga tūturu.*
est $4,000 — $4,500
133 A Taino Votive Dagger, Pre-Columbian
Carved from bone. A small dagger carved with delicate lines to represent a face. Pierced hold at the top. On a custom stand. L135 W16 D12mm, on stand H151mm
est $400 — $800
134 A Jadeite Pre-Columbian Olmec Figure, Mexico
Circa 1200 BCE-400 BCE. A hand-carved jade figure in a squat form. Highly polished surface. Lateral carved lines depict the eyes, mouth, and clothing. L42 W25 D10mm
est $700 — $1,400
135 A Pre-Columbian Zapotec Figure, Mexico
Circa 700 BCE-1521 CE. Zapotec culture was located in the Valley of Oaxaca in Meso America. This small figure has been modelled using a pale brown clay. The figure is detailed with pierced holes to represent facial features and body adornments. Mounted on a stand. Figure L70 W70 D35mm, on stand H180mm
est $400 — $800
136 A 4th-3rd Millennium BCE Vessel, Harappa Culture, Indus Valley
Made from a buff coloured terracotta in a cylindrical form on a small circular foot. With hand-painted designs in vibrant colours. Indus Valley is a Bronze Age civilisation that was located in the north-western region of the Indian subcontinent, consisting of what is now mainly present-day Pakistan and Northwest India. At its peak, the Indus Civilisation may have had a population of well over five million people. H81 D110mm
est $400 — $800
137 A Harappa Culture Figure, Indus Valley
Circa 2000 BCE. Made from a buff terracotta. Depicting a woman that has large holes for eyes and an exaggerated nose starting above her eyes. Indus Valley is a Bronze Age civilisation that was located in the north-western region of the Indian subcontinent, consisting of what is now mainly present-day Pakistan and Northwest India. At its peak, the Indus Civilisation may have had a population of well over five million people. L125 W40 D18mm
est $400 — $800
138 A Bronze Age Bull Figure, Harappa Culture, Indus Valley
4th-3rd millennium BCE. Indus Valley is a Bronze Age civilisation that was located in the north-western region of the Indian subcontinent, consisting of what is now mainly present-day Pakistan and Northwest India. At its peak, the Indus Civilisation may have had a population of well over five million people. This small bull figure has been hand-shaped from a red/brown ceramic and hand-painted with black spots and detailing. H78 W50 D90mm
est $400 — $800
139 A Carved Goddess Figure, Tonga A contemporary carving of a classical form. This is a representation of the goddess Hikule’o. Hikule’o is said to guard the entrance to Pulotu, the watery, dark realm of the ancestors. Hikule’o held a ritual role as mediator and was associated with the Tu’i Tonga, the earliest line of ruling chiefs, who were her earthly representatives. This carving has a rich dark brown patina over a slightly rough wood with visible wood grain. The eyes are large circular mother of pearl inlays. H265 W120 D85mm
est $2,000 — $4,000
140 A Large Carved Mask by Fayne Robinson
Charles Eldon Fayne Robinson (1963-) of Kāti Māmoe, Kai Tahi, Ngāti apa Ki Te Tõ and Ngāti Porou trained in whakairo at the Māori Arts and Crafts Institutue of Rotororua. Robinson has carved notiable works such as Kaipō Te Tauraka Waka a Māui Marae, Wheke, Rāpaki (Te Wheke) Marae, and Tūhuru, Arahura Marae. Carved from a single piece of wood depicting a face with moko. L980 W420mm
est $2,000 — $4,000
141 A Storyboard, Papua New Guinea Storyboards are used as tools for social memory; they record an event through their images. This storyboard includes a village scene with houses, trees, people, canoe, and crocodiles. H770 W1540mm
est $400 — $800
142 A Quimbaya Pottery Seated Slab Figure, Colombia
Quimbaya culture, c. 4th to 7th century BCE. A slab built form depicting a seated figure with one hand raised in the air. With a pierced septum. Drilled holes through the forehead. The eyes and mouth are long horizontal slits. H255 W210 D85mm
est $1,500 — $3,000
143 A Quimbaya Pottery Seated Slab Figure, Colombia
Quimbaya culture, c. 4th to 7th century BCE. Made from a pale grey earthenware. A slab built form depicting a seated male figure with one hand raised in the air. A pierced septum without a ring. Drilled holes through the forehead and lower torso. The eyes and mouth are long horizontal slits. H285 W230 D140mm
est $1,000 — $2,000
144 A Quimbaya Pottery Seated Slab Figure, Colombia
Quimbaya culture, c. 4th to 7th century BCE. Made from earthenware. A slab built form depicting a seated figure with one hand raised in the air. A pierced septum with gold ring. The figure wears a string of clay beads. Drilled holes through the forehead The eyes and mouth are long horizontal slits. H335 W270 D120mm
est $2,000 — $3,000
Webb's 28 May
41 A Prestigious and Chiefly Taiaha, Aotearoa
est $9,000 — $12,000
145 A 4th-3rd Millennium BCE Vessel, Harappa Culture, Indus Valley
Indus Valley is a Bronze Age civilisation that was located in the north-western region of the Indian subcontinent, consisting of what is now mainly presentday Pakistan and Northwest India. At its peak, the Indus Civilisation may have had a population of well over five million people. This vessel is made from a buff coloured baked clay with hand-painted designs of circles and gridded patterns in black and in red. The vessel has two lug handles below the shoulders. H319 W280mm
est $1,800 — $2,600
146 A Bronze Age Terracotta Bowl, Holy Land
3100 - 2900 BCE. The Holy Land was the first region to enter the Bronze Age, which began with the rise of the Mesopotamian civilisation. A conical form with a small discoid base. Featuring a band of impressed slashes around the rim. With four small radiating lugs. H134 D215mm
est $400 — $800
147 A 4th-3rd Millennium BCE Vessel, Harappa Culture, Indus Valley
Indus Valley is a Bronze Age civilisation that was located in the north-western region of the Indian subcontinent, consisting of what is now mainly present-day Pakistan and Northwest India. At its peak, the Indus Civilisation may have had a population of well over five million people. Made from a buff and red clay in a flattened ovoid shape. The vase has detailed hand-painted designs in abstract forms with a ring of fish around the opening. H260 D420mm
est $2,000 — $4,000
148 A Large and Impressive Potu Paongo Mat, Samoa
A large mat woven with dried panadus fibre that has been coloured green, yellow, and red. With a dense wool fringe. 2100 x 2950mm
est $600 — $1,200
149 A Framed Sentani Irian Jaya Barkcloth
1960s. Made from the inner-bark of a mulberry tree. Decorated with dyes in shades of brown and black over the natural colour of the backcloth. Framed and mounted behind glass. Frame 690 x 460mm
est $500 — $800
150 A Framed Mbjti Barkcloth, Zaire
Made from the inner-bark of a mulberry tree. Decorated with dyes in shades of brown and black over the natural colour of the backcloth. Framed and mounted behind glass. Frame 650 x 350mm
est $500 — $800
151 A Quimbaya Pottery Seated Slab Figure, Colombia
Quimbaya culture, c. 4th to 7th century BCE. A slab built form depicting a seated male figure with one hand raised in the air the other on the thigh. With a pierced septum with a large gold ring. Drilled holes through the forehead and stomach. The eyes and mouth are long horizontal slits. Marked with a collection number to the underside 'GCI/G'. H225 W155 D83mm
est $1,500 — $3,000
152 An Aztec Flute Made from Baked Clay
A clay form depicting a cross legged figure with a large headdress and ear spools. Four holes on the torso act as finger holes to adjust the pitch. The mouth piece sits at the back of the headdress. H145 W65mm
est $600 — $1,200
153 A Quimbaya Pottery Seated Slab Figure, Colombia
Quimbaya culture, c. 4th to 7th century BCE. Made from a grey earthenware. A slab built form depicting a seated female figure with hands under the breasts. A pierced septum with a gold ring. Drilled holes through the forehead and stomach. The eyes and mouth are long horizontal slits. H225 W180 D110mm
est $1,000 — $2,000
154 A 17th/18th Century Pottery Vase, Thailand
Likely from Haripunjaya. Made from earthenware. A tall bottle with concentric rings with geometric patterns running around the body. H330 D150mm
est $1,000 — $2,000
155 A Rare Tel Halaf Goddess Figure, Anatolia and Northern Syria
5000 - 4000 BCE. These female figures have features which are associated with fertility. The encrustations and the fact that nipples are present make this piece a very rare example. Hand-moulded from terracotta in the form of a seated woman with large breasts and hips. Many scholars believe that these figures represented fertility due to their voluptuous forms. H55 W39 D43mm. Provenance: Ex Artemis Gallery. Ex LA County Collection
est $2,500 — $4,500
156 A Cassowary Bone Dagger, Papua New Guinea
A bone dagger is made out of the femur bone of the cassowary bird which is native to Papua New Guinea. The front side of the dagger has an carved motif of a figure. The handle has been carved in the form of what is likely a hornbill bird. L400 W35 D105mm
est $400 — $800
157 A Dan Blacksmith Bellows, Ivory Coast
These wood bellows would have been laid horizontally and the two tubes at the bottom were used to concentrate the air pumped in from the two chambers which would have had goat skin over them. Mounted on a metal base. H865 W470 D200mm
est $400 — $800
158 A Ceremonial Bowl, Sikaiana Islands
Sikaiana is a remote para-Polynesian outlier in the Solomon Islands. Fewer than 1000 people speak the language and the atoll island of just 2km square has a population of only 300. Carved from a single piece of wood in a rectangular form. One end of the bowl features a carved bird, the other a human face. H150 W780 D96mm
est $300 — $600
159 A Temes Nevinbur Puppet, Vanuatu
Used in traditional dances. The head is made from bark and has over-moulded vegetable paste that has hardened for the facial features with black, red, and white pigment. The face has two large boar tusks curling away from the face. The head is moulded around a wooden handle.
est $200 — $300
160 A Porowa Ra Maru Club, New Caledonia
Porowa Ra Maru also known as bird head clubs are prestige objects. The head of the club represents a bird beak with a saggital crest and faint raised eyes. Lacquered dark brown. L638 W145 D38mm
est $400 — $800
161 An Impressive Tatā, Aotearoa
Bailers are used to scoop and remove water from inside the hulls of waka. This example is carved from a single piece of wood with a rich dark lacquer. The tatā bailer has a large hollowed scoop with a forward projecting handle. At the butt of the handle is a manaia face. The shoulders of the body have carvings depicting a face with exposed teeth. H100 W250 D445mm
est $7,000 — $10,000
29 2023 Webb's
Webb's 30 May
31 2024 Webb's
Terms and Conditions
The terms and conditions of sale listed here contain the policies of Webb’s (Webb Fine Art). They are the terms on which Webb’s (Webb Fine Art) and the Seller contract with the Buyer. They may be amended by printed Saleroom Notices or oral announcements made before and during the sale. By bidding at auction you agree to be bound by these terms.
representation or warranty of any kind by Webb’s or the Seller. Buyers are responsible for satisfying themselves concerning the condition of the property and the matters referred to in the catalogue by requesting a condition report.
No lot to be rejected if, subsequent to the sale, it has been immersed in liquid or treated by any other process unless the Auctioneer’s permission to subject the lot to such immersion or treatment has first been obtained in writing.
4. At the Sale
4.1. Refusal of Admission Webb’s reserves the right at our complete discretion to refuse admission to the auction premises or participation in any auction and to reject any bid.
1. Background to the Terms used in these Conditions
The conditions that are listed below contain terms that are used regularly and may need explanation. They are as follows:
“the Buyer” means the person with the highest bid accepted by the Auctioneer.
“the Lot” means any item depicted within the sale for auction and in particular the item or items described against any lot number in the catalogue.
“the Hammer price” means the amount of the highest bid accepted by the auctioneer in relation to a lot.
“the Buyer’s Premium” means the charge payable by the Buyer to the auction house as a percentage of the hammer price.
“the Reserve” means the lowest amount at which Webb’s has agreed with the Seller that the lot can be sold.
“Forgery” means an item constituting an imitation originally conceived and executed as a whole, with a fraudulent intention to deceive as to authorship, origin, age, period, culture or source, where the correct description as to such matters is not reflected by the description in the catalogue. Accordingly, no lot shall be capable of being a forgery by reason of any damage or restoration work of any kind (Including re-painting).
“the insured value” means the amount that Webb’s in its absolute discretion from time to time shall consider the value for which a lot should be covered for insurance (whether or not insurance is arranged by Webb’s).
All values expressed in Webb’s catalogues (in any format) are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD$). All bids, “hammer price”, “reserves”, “Buyers Premium” and other expressions of value are understood by all parties to be in New Zealand Dollars (NZD$) unless otherwise specified.
2. Webb’s Auctions as Agent
Except as otherwise stated, Webb’s acts as agent for the Seller.
The contract for the sale of the property is therefore made between the Seller and the Buyer.
3. Before the Sale
3.1. Examination of Property
Prospective Buyers are strongly advised to examine in person any property in which they are interested before the Auction takes place.
Neither Webb’s nor the Seller provides any guarantee in relation to the nature of the property apart from the Limited warranty in the paragraph below.
The property is otherwise sold “AS IS”
2. Catalogue and Other Descriptions
All statements by Webb’s in the catalogue entry for the property or in the condition report, or made orally or in writing elsewhere, are statements of opinion and are not to be relied upon as statements of fact. Such statements do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Webb’s of any kind. References in the catalogue entry to the condition report to damage or restoration are for guidance only and should be evaluated by personal inspection by the bidder or a knowledgeable representative. The absence of such a reference does not imply that an item is free from defects or restoration, nor does a reference to particular defects imply the absence of any others. Estimates of the selling price should not be relied on as a statement that this is the price at which the item will sell or its value for any other purpose. Neither Webb’s nor The Seller is responsible for any errors or omissions in the catalogue or any supplemental material.
Images are measured height by width (sight size). Illustrations are provided only as a guide and should not be relied upon as a true representation of colour or condition. Images are not shown at a standard scale. Mention is rarely made of frames (which may be provided as supplementary images on the website) which do not form part of the lot as described in the printed catalogue.
An item bought “on Extension” must be paid for in full before it will be released to the purchaser or his/ her agreed expertising committee or specialist. Payments received for such items will be held “in trust” for up to 90 days or earlier, if the issue of authenticity has been resolved more quickly. Extensions must be requested before the auction.
Foreign buyers should note that all transactions are in New Zealand Dollars so there may be a small exchange rate risk. The costs associated with acquiring a good opinion or certificate will be carried by the purchaser. If the item turns out to be forged or otherwise incorrectly described, all reasonable costs will be borne by the vendor.
3. Buyers Responsibility
All property is sold “as is” without
4.2. Registration Before Bidding Any prospective new buyer must complete and sign a registration form and provide photo identification before bidding. Webb’s may request bank, trade or other financial references to substantiate this registration.
4.3. Bidding as a Principal When making a bid, a bidder is accepting personal liability to pay the purchase price including the buyer’s premium and all applicable taxes, plus all other applicable charges, unless it has been explicitly agreed in writing with Webb’s before the commencement of the sale that the bidder is acting as agent on behalf of an identified third party acceptable to Webb’s and that Webb’s will only look to the principal for payment.
4.4. International Registrations
All International clients not known to Webb’s will be required to scan or fax through an accredited form of photo identification and pay a deposit at our discretion in cleared funds into Webb’s account at least 24 hours before the commencement of the auction. Bids will not be accepted without this deposit. Webb’s also reserves the right to request any additional forms of identification prior to registering an overseas bid.
This deposit can be made using a credit card, however the balance of any purchase price in excess of $5,000 cannot be charged to this card without prior arrangement. This deposit is redeemable against any auction purchase and will be refunded in full if no purchases are made.
4.5. Absentee Bids
Webb’s will use reasonable efforts to execute written bids delivered to us AT LEAST 24 Hours before the sale for the convenience of those clients who are unable to attend the auction in person. If we receive identical written bids on a particular lot, and at the auction these are the highest bids on that lot, then the lot will be sold to the person whose written bid was received and accepted first. Execution of written bids is a free service undertaken subject to other commitments at the time of the sale and we do not accept liability for failing to execute a written bid or for errors or omissions which may arise. It is the bidder’s responsibility to check with Webb’s after the auction if they were successful. Unlimited or “Buy” bids will not be accepted.
4.6. Telephone Bids
Priority will be given to overseas and bidders from other regions. Please refer to the catalogue for the Telephone Bids form. Arrangements for this service must
be confirmed AT LEAST 24 HOURS PRIOR to the auction commencing. Webb’s accepts no responsibility whatsoever for any errors or failure to execute bids. In telephone bidding the buyer agrees to be bound by all terms and conditions listed here and accepts that Webb’s cannot be held responsible for any miscommunications in the process. The success of telephone bidding cannot be guaranteed due to circumstances that are unforeseen. Buyers should be aware of the risk and accept the consequences should contact be unsuccessful at the time of Auction. You must advise Webb’s of the lots in question, and you will be assumed to be a buyer at the minimum price of 75% of estimate (i.e. reserve) for all such lots. Webb’s will advise Telephone Bidders who have registered at least 24 hours before the auction of any relevant changes to descriptions, withdrawals, or any other sale room notices.
4.7. Online Bidding
Webb’s offers an online bidding service. When bidding online the buyer agrees to be bound by all terms and conditions listed here by Webb’s.
Webb’s accepts no responsibility for any errors, failure to execute bids or any other miscommunications regarding this process. It is the online bidder’s responsibility to ensure the accuracy of the relevant information regarding bids, lot numbers and contact details. Webb’s does not charge for this service.
4.8.
Reserves
Unless otherwise indicated, all lots are offered subject to a reserve, which is the confidential minimum price below which the Lot will not be sold. The reserve will not exceed the low estimate printed in the catalogue. The auctioneer may open the bidding on any Lot below the reserve by placing a bid on behalf of the Seller. The auctioneer may continue to bid on behalf of seller up to the amount of the reserve, either by placing consecutive bids or by placing bids in response to other bidders.
4.9. Auctioneers Discretion
The Auctioneer has the right at his/ her absolute and sole discretion to refuse any bid, to advance the bidding in such a manner as he/she may decide, to withdraw or divide any lot, to combine any two or more lots and, in the case or error or dispute and whether during or after the sale, to determine the successful bidder, to continue the bidding, to cancel the sale or to reoffer and resell the item in dispute. If any dispute arises after the sale, then Webb’s sale record is conclusive.
4.10. Successful Bid and Passing of Risk
Subject to the auctioneer’s discretion, the highest bidder accepted by the auctioneer will be the buyer and the striking of his hammer marks the acceptance of the highest bid and the conclusion of a contract for sale between the Seller and the Buyer. Risk and responsibility for the lot (including frames or glass where relevant) passes immediately to the Buyer.
4.11. Indicative Bidding Steps, etc. Webb’s reserves the right to refuse any bid, withdraw any lot from sale, to place a reserve on any lot and to advance the bidding according to the following indicative steps: Increment Dollar
Range Amount $20 $0–$500 $50 $500–$1,000 $100 $1,000–$2,000
$200 $2,000–$5,000
$500 $5,000–$10,000
$1,000 $10,000–$20,000
$2,000 $20,000–$50,000
$5,000 $50,000 – $100,000
$10,000 $100,000–$200,000
$20,000 $200,000–$500,000
$50,000 $500,000–$1,000,000
Absentee bids must follow these increments and any bids that don’t follow the steps will be rounded up to the nearest acceptable bid.
5. After the Sale
5.1. Buyers Premium
In addition to the hammer price, the buyer agrees to pay to Webb’s the buyer’s premium. The buyer’s premium is 19.5% of the hammer price plus GST. (Goods and Services Tax) where applicable.
5.2. Payment and Passing of Title
The buyer must pay the full amount due (comprising the hammer price, buyer’s premium and any applicable taxes and GST) not later than 2 days after the auction date.
The buyer will not acquire title to the lot until Webb’s receives full payment in cleared funds, and no goods under any circumstances will be released without confirmation of cleared funds received. This applies even if the buyer wishes to send items overseas.
Payment can be made by direct transfer, cash (not exceeding NZD$5,000, if wishing to pay more than NZD$5,000 then this must be deposited directly into a Bank of New Zealand branch and bank receipt supplied) and EFTPOS (please check the daily limit). Payments can be made by debit card or credit card in person with a 2.2% merchant fee for Visa, Mastercard and Paywave, and 3.3% for American Express. Invoices that are in excess of $5,000 and where the card holder is not present, cannot be charged to a credit card without prior arrangement. Cheques are no longer accepted.
The buyer is responsible for any bank fees and charges applicable for the transfer of funds into Webb’s account.
5.3. Collection of Purchases & Insurance
Webb’s is entitled to retain items sold until all amounts due to us have been received in full in cleared funds. Subject to this, the Buyer shall collect purchased lots within 2 days from the date of the sale unless otherwise agreed in writing between Webb’s and the Buyer.
At the fall of the hammer, insurance is the responsibility of the purchaser.
5.4. Packing, Handling and Shipping
Webb’s will be able to suggest removals companies that the buyer can use but takes no responsibility whatsoever for the actions of any recommended third party. Webb’s can pack and handle goods purchased at the auction by agreement and a charge will be made for this service. All packing, shipping, insurance, postage & associated charges will be borne by the purchaser.
5.5. Permits, Licences and Certificates
Under The Protected Objects Act 1975, buyers may be required to obtain a licence for certain categories of items in a sale from the Ministry of Culture & Heritage, PO Box 5364, Wellington.
5.6. Remedies for Non-Payment
If the Buyer fails to make full payment immediately, Webb’s is entitled to exercise one or more of the following
rights or remedies (in addition to asserting any other rights or remedies available under the law)
5.6.1. to charge interest at such a rate as we shall reasonably decide.
5.6.2. to hold the defaulting Buyer liable for the total amount due and to commence legal proceedings for its recovery along with interest, legal fees and costs to the fullest extent permitted under applicable law.
5.6.3. to cancel the sale.
5.6.4. to resell the property publicly or privately on such terms as we see fit.
5.6.5. to pay the Seller an amount up to the net proceeds payable in respect of the amount bid by the defaulting Buyer. In these circumstances the defaulting Buyer can have no claim upon Webb’s in the event that the item(s) are sold for an amount greater than the original invoiced amount.
5.6.6. to set off against any amounts which Webb’s may owe the Buyer in any other transactions, the outstanding amount remaining unpaid by the Buyer.
5.6.7. where several amounts are owed by the Buyer to us, in respect of different transactions, to apply any amount paid to discharge any amount owed in respect of any particular transaction, whether or not the Buyer so directs.
5.6.8. to reject at any future auction any bids made by or on behalf of the Buyer or to obtain a deposit from the Buyer prior to accepting any bids.
5.6.9. to exercise all the rights and remedies of a person holding security over any property in our possession owned by the Buyer whether by way of pledge, security interest or in any other way, to the fullest extent permitted by the law of the place where such property is located. The Buyer will be deemed to have been granted such security to us and we may retain such property as collateral security for said Buyer’s obligations to us.
5.6.10. to take such other action as Webb’s deem necessary or appropriate.
If we do sell the property under paragraph (4), then the defaulting Buyer shall be liable for payment of any deficiency between the total amount originally due to us and the price obtained upon reselling as well as for all costs, expenses, damages, legal fees and commissions and premiums of whatever kinds associated with both sales or otherwise arising from the default.
If we pay any amount to the Seller under paragraph (5) the Buyer acknowledges that Webb’s shall have all of the rights of the Seller, however arising, to pursue the Buyer for such amount.
5.7. Failure to Collect Purchases Where purchases are not collected within 2 days from the sale date,
whether or not payment has been made, we shall be permitted to remove the property to a warehouse at the buyer’s expense, and only release the items after payment in full has been made of removal, storage handling, insurance and any other costs incurred, together with payment of all other amounts due to us.
6. Extent of Webb’s Liability
Webb’s agrees to refund the purchase price in the circumstances of the Limited Warranty set out in paragraph 7 below. Apart from that, neither the Seller nor we, nor any of our employees or agents are responsible for the correctness of any statement of whatever kind concerning any lot, whether written or oral, nor for any other errors or omissions in description or for any faults or defects in any lots. Except as stated in paragraph 7 below, neither the Seller, ourselves, our officers, agents or employees give any representation warranty or guarantee or assume any liability of any kind in respect of any lot with regard to merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, description, size, quality, condition, attribution, authenticity, rarity, importance, medium, provenance, exhibition history, literature or historical relevance. Except as required by local law any warranty of any kind is excluded by this paragraph.
7. Limited Warranty
Subject to the terms and conditions of this paragraph, the Seller warrants for the period of thirty days from the date of the sale that any property described in this catalogue (noting such description may be amended by any saleroom notice or announcement) which is stated without qualification to be the work of a named author or authorship is authentic and not a forgery. The term “Author” or “authorship” refers to the creator of the property or to the period, culture, source, or origin as the case may be, with which the creation of such property is identified in the catalogue.
The warranty is subject to the following:
it does not apply where a) the catalogue description or saleroom notice corresponded to the generally accepted opinion of scholars and experts at the date of the sale or fairly indicated that there was a conflict of opinions, or b) correct identification of a lot can be demonstrated only by means of a scientific process not generally accepted for use until after publication of the catalogue or a process which at the date of the publication of the catalogue was unreasonably expensive or impractical or likely to have caused damage to the property.
the benefits of the warranty are not assignable and shall apply only to the original buyer of the lot as shown on the invoice originally issued by Webb’s when the lot was sold at Auction.
the Original Buyer must have remained the owner of the lot without disposing of any interest in it to any third party.
The Buyer’s sole and exclusive remedy against the Seller in place of any other remedy which might be available, is the cancellation of the sale and the refund of the original purchase price paid for the lot less the buyer’s premium which is non-refundable. Neither the Seller nor Webb’s will be liable for any
special, incidental nor consequential damages including, without limitation, loss of profits.
The Buyer must give written notice of claim to us within thirty days of the date of the Auction. The Seller shall have the right, to require the Buyer to obtain two written opinions by recognised experts in the field, mutually acceptable to the Buyer and Webb’s to decide whether or not to cancel the sale under warranty.
the Buyer must return the lot to Seller in the same condition that it was purchased.
8. Severability
If any part of these Conditions of Sale is found by any court to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, that part shall be discounted, and the rest of the Conditions shall continue to be valid to the fullest extent permitted by law.
9. Copyright
The copyright in all images, illustrations and written material produced by Webb’s relating to a lot including the contents of this catalogue, is and shall remain the property at all times of Webb’s and shall not be used by the Buyer, nor by anyone else without our prior written consent. Webb’s and the Seller make no representation or warranty that the Buyer of a property will acquire any copyright or other reproduction rights in it.
10. Law and Jurisdiction
These terms and conditions and any matters concerned with the foregoing fall within the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of New Zealand, unless otherwise stated.
11. Pre-Sale Estimates
Webb’s publishes with each catalogue our opinion as to the estimated price range for each lot. These estimates are approximate prices only and are not intended to be definitive. They are prepared well in advance of the sale and may be subject to revision. Interested parties should contact Webb’s prior to auction for updated pre-sale estimates and starting prices.
12. Sale Results
Webb’s will provide auction results, which will be available as soon as possible after the sale. Results will include buyer’s premium. These results will be posted at www.webbs.co.nz.
13. Goods and Service Tax
GST is applicable on the hammer price in the case where the seller is selling property that is owned by an entity registered for GST. GST is also applicable on the hammer price in the case where the seller is not a New Zealand resident. These lots are denoted by a dagger symbol † placed next to the estimate. GST is also applicable on the buyer’s premium.
14. Māori Taonga
Please note that Y-registered Māori taonga can only be purchased by registered collectors of taonga tūturu.
Toki, Aotearoa