Feather Box Lid

Flat rectangular lid for feather box P3203A. Two heads caved in relief with shell inlaid eyes. Surface decoration consisting of dog-tooth notches and parallel ridges (rauponga). Late 19th century Arawa. Purchased at auction from J. C. Stevens, London, on April 16, 1912. The catalogue description reads as follows: "Wakahuia, a carved box for ornaments and tail feathers of the Huia bird literally a jewel box, 18 1/2 in. in length. The handles comprise two figures in high relief, there are two heads on the lid. This box was brought from New Zealand to England in H.M.S. Alligator in 1834; of unusual and quaint design."