Portrait - Maori Women

Portrait – Maori Women

A striking Oceanic artefact, this albumen print offers a vivid portrayal of two Maori women captured around the turn of the twentieth century. The photographic portrait embodies the expressive documentary style prevalent in the late Victorian period, providing a rare window into indigenous New Zealand life.

Origin: New Zealand
Date: Circa 1900
Material: Albumen print on paper

Dimensions: 15 x 20.2 cm

Condition: Excellent original surface, minor age toning consistent with age

This historic photograph is closely aligned with the ethnographic interests of the era, when photographers such as Josiah Martin were documenting the peoples and cultures of the Pacific. Comparable works are held in the collections of institutions like Te Papa Tongarewa and the British Museum, reflecting the enduring significance of Oceanic portraiture within both artistic and anthropological study. The period’s fascination with naturalistic representation is evident here, marking this piece as both an artwork and a valuable cultural document.

Notable Features:

• Finely composed albumen print, showcasing rich tonal gradations and crisp details
• Poised and dignified depiction of Maori subjects in traditional attire
• Evocative of late nineteenth-century Oceanic visual culture, with particular emphasis on portraiture
• Marked with the photographer’s numbering (“635”), confirming its authenticity and place within a documented series

This portrait exemplifies the technical finesse of late Victorian photographic practice, including careful use of natural light and a sensitivity to the character of the sitters. The poised presentation and intimate framing highlight the regality and individuality of the Maori women, echoing the style of other esteemed ethnographic photographers of the time.

Its rarity and distinguished provenance heighten its appeal to collectors of Oceanic art, as such portraits seldom surface on the market in this size and condition. The scale is ideal for personal or curated display, making it equally suitable as a standalone highlight or as part of a broader collection focusing on historic photography or Oceanic heritage. This Portrait – Maori Women serves as both a compelling artwork and a tangible link to cultural history, merging artistic merit with documentary value for the discerning collector.