Māori Masterpiece Sets Auction Record in New Zealand

In a historic sale, an oil painting of a Māori elder has become the most valuable artwork in New Zealand's art auction history, highlighting ongoing cultural and political tensions.

In a remarkable turn of events, an oil painting titled "Thoughts of a Tohunga" by the esteemed artist Charles Frederick Goldie has shattered records in New Zealand, selling for NZ$3.75 million (approximately $2.2 million) during an auction hosted by the International Art Centre. This sale cements the artwork's position as the most valuable Māori portrait ever auctioned in the nation.

The painting, completed in 1938, features Wharekauri Tahuna, a revered Māori priest believed to be one of the last tattooed men of his lineage. Art critics hail "Thoughts of a Tohunga" as Goldie's masterpiece, depicting Tahuna adorned with a traditional moko, or facial tattoo, and wearing a hei-tiki pendant.

Richard Thomson, director of the International Art Centre, indicated that this painting had not been available on the market for the past 33 years. The sale is particularly significant against the backdrop of ongoing social unrest related to Māori rights in New Zealand. The recent introduction of a contentious bill prompted widespread protests by thousands, illustrating the complexities of Māori culture and identity amid changing political landscapes.

Thomson noted that Goldie was deeply respected among the Māori community during his lifetime, having built connections with his subjects in Auckland. The auction house has consistently seen high demand for Goldie's works, with 13 paintings selling for over a million New Zealand dollars since 2016.

While Māori people constitute around 18% of New Zealand's population, significant disparities remain in areas like health, education, and income. There exists a notable seven-year gap in life expectancy when compared to the general population. The continual relevance of Goldie’s art and the record-breaking sale reflect a deeper engagement with New Zealand's history and the ongoing challenges faced by the Māori community.