19th Century Maori Carved Whalebone Patiti Handle

A good 19th century Maori carved whalebone patiti (hatchet)…
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A good 19th century Maori carved whalebone patiti (hatchet) handle, the oval section shaft carved with two relief stylised full figures, one each side, remnants of red ceiling wax to the eyes, the butt end further carved with two opposing stylised figures, two pierced sections and drilled hole for a lashing, further remains of red sealing wax, the top with double flange section to receive an iron blade, not present, one flange broken. Good old patina and evidence of age. Being assessed for registration. Length 328 cm

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  • 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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