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1 of 253523 objects
Ceremonial staff 1850 - 1920
Wood | 91 x 6 x 2.8 cm (whole object) | RCIN 69423
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A carved wooden Maori walking stick or orator's staff. The lower half is plain and the upper half is carved in the form of a stylised Maori head and two standing figures, one on the other's shoulders. The topmost figure rests its three-fingered hands on its waist, and is carved all over with decoration in imitation of body tattoos. The two lower parts are plain and probably unfinished.
This walking stick or orator's staff is known as a tokotoko. It is a symbol of authority, usually held during formal speeches.Provenance
May have been presented to Edward, Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII) during his visit to New Zealand as part of his tour of the Empire in 1920.
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Creator(s)
(nationality)(nationality)Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Wood
Measurements
91 x 6 x 2.8 cm (whole object)
Place of Production
New Zealand