The ceremony of Ongi, or Pressing Noses: Natives greeting each other, with Mount Egmont in the distance from the 'New Zealand Illustrated'
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About Reproduction
Bring the timeless beauty of George French Angas's The ceremony of Ongi, or Pressing Noses: Natives greeting each other, with Mount Egmont in the distance from the 'New Zealand Illustrated' into your home with a handmade oil painting reproduction. Carefully recreated on canvas by skilled artists using traditional techniques, this piece captures the delicate brushwork, subtle light, and vibrant color of the original masterpiece. With museum-level quality and rich texture, it brings elegance and artistic depth to any space. Enjoy free shipping and make this masterpiece a part of your personal collection.
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Original Description
The painting The ceremony of Ongi, or Pressing Noses: Natives greeting each other, with Mount Egmont in the distance by George French Angas captures a poignant moment of Māori cultural tradition against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Taranaki (formerly Mount Egmont). Created in the mid-19th century for New Zealand Illustrated, Angas’ work blends ethnographic precision with romanticized naturalism, characteristic of colonial-era travel art. The scene exudes warmth and intimacy, depicting the hongi—a traditional Māori greeting where noses touch—as a symbol of connection and shared breath. The distant, snow-capped volcano lends a dramatic yet serene contrast, emphasizing the harmony between indigenous customs and the untamed landscape. Angas’ detailed watercolor technique and careful composition reflect his dual role as artist and documentarian, offering invaluable insights into early cross-cultural encounters. Today, this piece holds significance not only as colonial-era art but also as a rare visual record of Māori life before widespread European influence altered traditional practices.
For interior décor, this print would elevate a study, library, or office with its historical gravitas and earthy palette. A mid-sized framed version (approx. 24x18 inches) would suit a focal wall above a wooden desk or bookshelf, its muted greens and blues harmonizing with natural materials like leather, oak, or linen. In a minimalist space, it adds narrative depth; in a maximalist setting, it anchors other curiosities like tribal textiles or vintage maps. Pair it with brass-accented lighting to highlight its golden undertones, or place it near potted ferns to echo the lush scenery. For offices, the artwork’s theme of connection makes it ideal for meeting rooms, subtly reinforcing values of respect and collaboration. Opt for a matte finish frame to preserve its antique charm, avoiding overly ornate designs that might compete with the scene’s quiet dignity.
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Lead Time & Shipping
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.
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Return & Refund
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.
