New Zealand Whalebone 'Kotiate' Club

New Zealand Whalebone 'Kotiate' Club

An authentic example of Oceanic craftsmanship, this 19th-century New Zealand whalebone 'Kotiate' club exemplifies traditional Māori artistry. Reflecting the celebrated shape and strength characteristic of its period, the piece is both a striking artefact and a significant cultural object.

Origin: New Zealand
Date: 19th century
Material: Whalebone

Dimensions:
Height: 31.00 cm (12.20 inches)
Width: 11.00 cm (4.33 inches)

Condition: Excellent patina, minimal wear commensurate with age

The kotiate club is distinguished by its waisted centre and elegant, carved head at the butt, features commonly associated with prestigious Māori weapons. Similar examples reside in the collections of major museums, including Te Papa Tongarewa and the British Museum, indicating the design’s enduring significance. Such objects were traditionally wielded by high-ranking Māori chiefs, serving both practical and ceremonial roles within 19th-century New Zealand society.

Notable Features:

• Meticulously shaped in whalebone, ensuring exceptional durability and a tactile, smooth surface
• Exquisite hand-carving at the butt, highlighting the carver’s skill and attention to symbolic motifs
• Classic kotiate form with a waisted centre, evoking the distinct butterfly-shaped design typical of such Oceanic weapons
• Rich, aged patina that attests to its authenticity and gentle preservation

This Oceanic club offers collectors and enthusiasts a rare opportunity to acquire a sought-after 19th-century Māori artefact. Its manageable size ensures suitability for prominent display, either as a standalone statement piece or within a wider ethnographic collection. The club’s elegant proportions and historical resonance make it a desirable highlight for discerning collectors of tribal art and Oceanic antiquities.