Artist unknown :[Portrait of Te Ngarara Tenawa, Chief of the Ngati Awa, Whakatane. ca 1825-1840s?].

Shows a half length profile portrait of the Maori chief, grimacing in a threatening way, and holding a mere up in front of him in his right hand. He wears full moko.

This chief was noted for his attack and capture of the brig "Haweis" in 1823.

The subject has been identified by his likeness on the front post of the Mataatua House, Whakatane, and by another titled watercolour portrait previously sold by the Gow Langsford Gallery (see 1998 catalogue of the John Leech Gallery & Gow Langsford Gallery, lot 2). The watercolour version, along with a companion piece by the same hand, was purchased by the Library in March 2006. See A-237-043.

Variously dated, earlier and later than 1825 (see letter of Marian Minson, AT 13/14/1, 11 October 2000, and 1998 catalogue of John Leech Gallery and Gow Langsford Gallery).

Quantity: 1 oil(s).

Physical Description: Oil on canvas, 215 x 180 mm.