Minimalistic Tat' with Sophisticated Details and Dark Patina

A superb Tat' (waka bailer), extremely well balanced example in…
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A superb Tat' (waka bailer), extremely well balanced example in the minimalistic early form. The base extends and terminates with minimalist manaia or tiki figure, emphasised with fully incised almond-shaped eyes, perforated nostrils and relief mouth. The body of the tat' is highly refined with a subtle rigid climbing through the centre surface, which then extends into the handle. The shoulders of the tat' also offer sophisticated relief lines. The handle morphs into abstract avian form, again with perforated nostrils. The functioning bowl of tat' is double lipped in orthodox form, to allow more efficient and vigorous use of the object. Overall surface scraping. Finished with very rich dark patina. On custom presentation stand. Length 50 cm, width 21.5 cm, depth 14 cm

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  • Incised - A record of a name, date or inscription, or a decoration scratched into a surface, usually of a glass or ceramic item with a blunt instrument to make a coarse indentation. Compare with engraving where the surface is cut with a sharp instrument such as a metal needle or rotating tool to achieve a fine indentation.
  • Patination / Patina - In broad terms, patination refers to the exterior surface appearance of the timber, the effect of fading caused by exposure to sunlight and air over the course of a century or more, changing the piece to a soft, mellow colour.

    As patina is very difficult to replicate, it is one of the most important guides to determining the age of furniture.

    Patina is also the term applied to the bloom or film found on old bronzes due to oxidisation.

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