The Sir Cyril Newall New Zealand Collection

LOT 04

This exceptional Mere Pounamu, believed to be 18th Century, carved from deep green kawakawa pounamu, features a spatulate blade, finely shaped grip, and a butt adorned with five concentric grooves and a stone-drilled suspension hole. A striking milky inclusion and natural scar on the butt enhance its authenticity & mana (prestige). Partial old paper label to the reverse with illegible writing. 33.5cm cm long by 10.5cm wide.

Historical Provenance:

The mere pounamu was presented to Sir Cyril Newall on 3 March 1943, during the official ceremonies to open the Centennial Memorial Meeting Houses at Awahou and Ohinemutu, in Rotorua. This event, a landmark in the history of the Arawa confederation of tribes, was attended by the most distinguished assembly of Māori and Pākehā dignitaries gathered at a Māori event since Waitangi.

The Vice-Regal party, led by Sir Cyril Newall and Lady Newall, included Prime Minister Peter Fraser and Mrs. Fraser, Minister of Native Affairs H.G.R. Mason, Minister of Rehabilitation Bob Semple, and Minister for the Māori Race Paraire Paikea.

The mere has the remains of a label on one side with the words ‘Te Rang…’, however the label is incomplete/damaged. As it was gifted by the Te Arawa it is believed it could be a reference to Te Rangikaheke (Wiremu Maihi Te Rangikaheke - a high ranking Te Arawa Chief and scholar). Further research could confirm this more detailed provenance.

Condition:

Wear commensurate with age.