18th Century Hei Tiki with Rose Gold Repair Brace

A superb large 18th century hei tiki. A suberb example of an early type II hei tiki carved in bright inanga variety stone. The head displays ear and chin projections, small recessed eyes with surmounting crescent shaped eyebrow markings and lightly detailed nasal bridge and mouth. Details of the three-fingered hands are worn but clearly visible. Also noticeable are the small holes to mark three toed feet. The back is flat and even with a traditionally stone-drilled countersunk suspension hole. During the late 19th century this hei tiki was broken through the neck and upper left arm then repaired and reinforced with a 9ct rose gold brace attached verso. Small flake to the left shoulder along the break line. Provenance: ex estate of Thomas Aubery Chappe Hall, passed down to family by descent. Height 13.5 cm.