Maori Artifacts: Carvings, Flutes, and Adornments from New Zealand, 1836 Litho

About this sheet

This detailed lithograph, circa 1836, showcases a remarkable collection of Maori artifacts, capturing the intricate craftsmanship of New Zealand's indigenous people. Central to the composition is a carved wooden figure, representing a deity or ancestral guardian, adorned with traditional motifs. Surrounding the figure are a variety of items, including finely carved flutes, weaponry, and personal adornments.

The upper section highlights a beautifully woven item, possibly a ceremonial or functional vessel, showcasing the Maori's exceptional weaving skills. The flutes, with their decorative carvings, demonstrate both artistic flair and practical use in ceremonial contexts. The lower elements include weapons and ornaments, such as a neck pendant fashioned from bone and designed for ritualistic or symbolic purposes.

Drawn by Louis Auguste de Sainson and reproduced in Brodtmann’s *Entdeckungs, Reise der Franzosischen Corvette Astrolabe*, this lithograph provides a visual narrative of Maori material culture and artistic heritage during the 19th century.

Condition Report: Light foxing present in the margins, with some minor age-related toning. The central image retains its clarity and contrast, with finely preserved details. Overall in very good condition.

Keywords: Maori artifacts, New Zealand carvings, traditional flutes, Maori adornments, Dumont d'Urville, Astrolabe expedition, Louis Auguste de Sainson, Brodtmann lithographs, 19th-century ethnography, Maori craftsmanship, indigenous culture, New Zealand history, ritual objects, ancestral figures.