Te Aitu Te Irikau - An Arawa Chieftainess

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "Te Aitu Te Irikau - An Arawa Chieftainess", originally brought to life by the talented Charles Frederick Goldie. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to Charles Frederick Goldie and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

"Te Aitu Te Irikau - An Arawa Chieftainess" is a notable painting by the acclaimed New Zealand artist Charles Frederick Goldie. Completed in 1902, this work is a significant example of Goldie's dedication to capturing the likenesses and cultural heritage of the Māori people during a period of significant change and upheaval in New Zealand's history. Goldie, renowned for his meticulous and realistic portraiture, sought to document the traditional Māori way of life, which he believed was rapidly disappearing due to the influences of European colonization.

The subject of the painting, Te Aitu Te Irikau, was a chieftainess of the Arawa tribe, one of the prominent iwi (tribes) in the Rotorua region of New Zealand. Her dignified presence and traditional attire are rendered with exceptional detail, reflecting Goldie's deep respect for his subjects and his commitment to authenticity. The painting is characterized by its realistic depiction of Te Aitu Te Irikau's facial features, including the intricate moko (facial tattoo), which signifies her high status and tribal affiliations.

Goldie's work is often celebrated for its ethnographic value, providing a visual record of Māori leaders and elders at a time when their traditional lifestyles were under threat. However, his paintings have also been the subject of debate, with some critics arguing that they romanticize and freeze Māori culture in a colonial gaze. Despite this, "Te Aitu Te Irikau - An Arawa Chieftainess" remains an important piece within New Zealand's art history, offering insights into the cultural dynamics of the early 20th century.

The painting is housed in the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, where it continues to be a focal point for discussions on the intersection of art, culture, and history. Through this work, Goldie has left an indelible mark on the portrayal of Māori identity, making "Te Aitu Te Irikau - An Arawa Chieftainess" a significant artifact for both art historians and cultural scholars.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.