This Maori lithograph print by Douglas Ferrier depicts a Maori warrior with tattoos and holding a pouwhenua.

The Maori Kaitaua (Warlike) print measures 12 3/8" (31.5cm) x 17 1/2" (44.5 cm) and is printed on good quality textured card, all ready to frame and admire on your wall.  A descriptive paper is included.

When manuhiri (visitors) approached a pa (fortified village) the tangata whenua ( local people) would send forth their best toa ( warrior) to challenge the visitors' intentions.  He would perform the wero (challenge).  In executing the wero there would be lots of glaring eye contact (pukana), tongue protruding and darting about (whatero), masculine gestures, fanciful footwork, and the feigning of strikes and blows with weapons. 

This toa is shown posed ready to defend his tribe’s mana.  He wears feathers in his hair, mako shark earrings, and piupiu. His weapon is a pouwhenua ( sharpened spear with spatula shaped striking blade).