Maori Wakahuia - traditional style Treasure Box
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TIK09
This Maori Wakahuia (treasure box) is strikingly similar to the Wakahuia in the Gilbert Mair collection, dating from the 1800s.
Wakahuia means "treasure box", and is the name of the container Maori used to store their treasures, usually their prized Huia feathers but also other taongas. The treasure box was normally hung from the rafters for security purposes, and so it traditionally was carved on all sides, including the bottom. This Wakahuia is also carved all over.
Traditional Maori carving designs are displayed on this Wakahuia - spirals, lines, tattooed faces, all have a meaning.
Whilst this Wakahuia looks very much like it is carved from wood, it is actually made from resin. This gives a fabulous rendition of the original carved creation, without the hefty price tag, and saving our native timber. This also confers considerable weight to the piece.
It's nice to be able to own a Wakahuia that closely resembles those created by early Maori, and it is a great piece to keep your treasures in.
Wakahuia means "treasure box", and is the name of the container Maori used to store their treasures, usually their prized Huia feathers but also other taongas. The treasure box was normally hung from the rafters for security purposes, and so it traditionally was carved on all sides, including the bottom. This Wakahuia is also carved all over.
Traditional Maori carving designs are displayed on this Wakahuia - spirals, lines, tattooed faces, all have a meaning.
Whilst this Wakahuia looks very much like it is carved from wood, it is actually made from resin. This gives a fabulous rendition of the original carved creation, without the hefty price tag, and saving our native timber. This also confers considerable weight to the piece.
It's nice to be able to own a Wakahuia that closely resembles those created by early Maori, and it is a great piece to keep your treasures in.
The Wakahuia measures approximately 30 x 8 x 8cm (12" x 3 1/4" x 3 1/4").
