Background / provenance:

This 1946 edition of “Polynesian Literature: Maori Poetry (Waiata and Tangi)” was edited by Johannes C. Andersen, one of New Zealand’s best-known early ethnologists and collectors of Maori oral traditions. Andersen published extensively on Maori music, mythology, poetry and place names, and his work played an important role in preserving traditional material during the first half of the twentieth century.

Published in New Plymouth by Thomas Avery & Sons, the book reflects growing scholarly and public interest in Maori literary traditions during the mid-century period. Titles focused specifically on waiata and tangi remain sought after by collectors of Maori studies, New Zealand cultural history and Polynesian literature, particularly in original softcover format.

Details:

• Edited by Johannes C. Andersen
• Title: “Polynesian Literature: Maori Poetry”
• Sub-title: “Waiata and Tangi”
• Published 1946
• Thomas Avery & Sons Ltd, New Plymouth
• Softcover
• 80 pages
• Maori poetry and traditional literature content
• English language publication with Maori text references

Condition: General age wear and light foxing present throughout. Covers show marks, edge wear and some fading. Small stain visible near top edge of front cover. Light creasing and handling wear present. Internally generally clean and complete with age toning consistent with period.

Pick-up / courier: Pick-up fine from Botany Downs or Auckland CBD by appointment. Items are packed securely. Courier is at buyer’s cost.