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Maori Greenstone Mere
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
Maori Greenstone Mere
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

Maori Greenstone Mere

Artifact SeriesHead of State Gifts
Artifact IDFO.08092011-14-1
Object Type Club
Gifter
Artist (New Zealander)
Intended Recipient (American, 1961)
Date 2011
Medium gemstone (greenstone), shell (mother of pearl), wood, metal
DimensionsOverall - 3D H 3 in x W 15 3/4 in x D 7 in (7.6 cm x 40 cm x 17.8 cm )
Physical Description
Physical DescriptionTraditional Maori Mere, a short broad-bladed club made of the sacred greenstone also known as jade. Carved by Aden Hoglund. Contained in a wood presentation box with plaque.
Inscriptions and MarkingsText of plaque on top of box: TE MERE WAHAIKA O TE RUNANGA O NGAI TAHU This Mere Pounamu was presented to the Honorable BARACK OBAMA, 44th President of the United States of America by the Right Honourable JOHN KEY, 38th Prime Minister of New Zealand July 2011 It represents the Strength, Courage, and Leadership of Our Two Nations: Nga Mana Kaha Nga Toa Maia Nga Rangatiratanga Nga Mana Motu Katoa
Historical NoteReceived from New Zealand M.P. John Key during a working visit to the White House on July 22, 2011.
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a foreign official to President Barack Obama during the Obama Administration. It was received through the Executive Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library.Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts of State (National Archives Identifier 66540613)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Obama Presidential Library. The Obama Presidential Library does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
In Collection(s)
Related Event(s)
    Not on view
    Related Links
    The artist was interviewed about this object in an article from New Zealand’s Stuff: "Hokitika man's carving fit for a president”