Chief's staff "taiaha"

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Description

grained wood, reddish brown and black patina, the shaft lense-shaped in cross section with a paddle-like ending, the point shows a janus face with a protruding tongue, min. dam., socle;
all highly born Maori males carried such staffs as insignia of rank. Besides “taiahas” were also used to emphasize points of oratory, for hand-to-hand combat, and in ceremonial displays. They are not spears but are essentially designed for parrying and sparring, and the spatulate end was the actual part of the weapon that would wound an adversary. The movements associated with “taiaha” usage as a fighting weapon were carefully taught according to fixed rules.

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Comparing literature

Wardwell, Allen, Island Ancestors, Oceanic Art from the Masco Collection, Fort Worth 1994, ill. 89

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