Antique Māori Carved Wooden Panel / Wall Plaque – New Zealand, c.1900s
Description:
An antique carved wooden panel attributed to Māori origin, New Zealand, dating to the early 20th century. This striking piece features dense, flowing surface carving with repeating koru-like spirals and linear motifs, characteristic of traditional Māori woodcarving aesthetics adapted into decorative and architectural forms during the late 19th to early 20th century.
The panel is carved from a single solid timber board with a shallow relief bowl-like recess at the centre, framed by highly worked symmetrical carving across the face. The carving displays a strong sense of rhythm and balance, with layered incised lines and pierced detailing that create depth and movement across the surface.
Pieces of this nature were commonly produced during the colonial and early post-colonial period for ceremonial interiors, meeting houses, or as commissioned decorative works reflecting Māori carving traditions. Surviving examples of this scale and workmanship are uncommon, particularly outside New Zealand.
Features:
Origin: New Zealand (attributed Māori origin)
Era: Early 20th century, c.1900s
Cultural Style: Māori carving tradition
Material: Solid carved hardwood
Form: Carved panel / wall plaque with central recessed section
Decoration: Deep relief carving with flowing spiral and linear motifs
Construction: Hand-carved from a single timber board
Use: Decorative wall piece, cultural display, or collection item
Approximate Dimensions:
Width: approx. 17.5 inches / 44.5 cm
Height: approx. 7.5 inches / 19 cm
Depth (maximum): approx. 2.25 inches / 5.7 cm
(See ruler in photos for reference)
Materials / Construction:
Solid hardwood construction
Hand-carved surface with incised and pierced detailing
Natural aged timber patina
No modern fasteners or composite materials observed
Condition:
Good antique condition consistent with age and use. Surface wear, minor marks, and natural variations in the timber are present, as expected for a piece of this period. No major structural damage observed. Overall integrity remains sound, with carving details well preserved.
Type:
Antique Māori carved wooden panel / cultural decorative artwork.
A visually powerful and culturally significant carved work, offering strong appeal to collectors of Oceanic art, Māori artefacts, early New Zealand decorative arts, or museum-inspired interior displays.
