Hache de combat / Tomahawk "patiti"

wood, iron, base

The shaft of this axe is extremely skilfully carved with intricate designs. It is adorned with three figures and two anthropomorphic heads. The iron blade is of European origin and was acquired in the trade (illegible engraving "Mo...2").
These weapons were used for close, hand-to-hand fighting, in which Maori warriors became adept.