Description:

New Zealand, Maori culture, 19th century. Rare and exceptional carved wooden flute. Tapered at each end with carved Tiki at midsection, woven flax string (probably kieke root) mouthpiece and other end. At mouthpiece is a carved Wheku head inlaid with haliotis shell. Open-mouthed tiki sits at the fingerhole. The exact role of the Bugle flute is unknown but one prevailing theory is that it announced the return of the chief to his village. Size: 19.625" L x 2" W (49.8 cm x 5.1 cm)

For similar examples see the "John Nicholson of Haslemere" flute which hammered for a whopping 140,000 British pounds!

Provenance: private Orange, California, USA collection, acquired in the 1930s

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#157363

  • Condition: Wonderful mellow patina with a few minor dings here and there.

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April 8, 2021 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000