Day 298: Tekoteko
Image by Heather F
From a letter hanging behind the carving:
Carved by New Zealand Maori Arts & Crafts Institute
Trainee Carver - Robert Rika of Te Arawa tribal affiliation
The Tekoteko (three dimensional ancestral personification) was a stylized representation of the main progenitor of the tribe and as such, it was unusually situated at the most focal point of the Whare Whakairo (fully carved tribal meeting house), either at the highest point at the front of the house, or at the base of the main central ridge support posts of the house.
The depiction of the human image in highly stylized form was the predominant feature of traditional Maori carvings which were deeply spiritual in nature. The pre-European Maori held religious beliefs which told them that no attempt should be made to duplicate what could only be created by lo, the Supreme Being. Hence the disciplines intrinsic in traditional Maori carving are quite unlike those pertaining to classical Western sculpture.
Only the Tohunga Whakairo (priestly expert in the significance pertaining to Maori carving) determined the effigy symbolizing the revered tribal ancestor, and it was his skill which gave greater symbolic meaning to the carvings.
Mr. Rika has imparted his skill in accordance with the design disciplines handed down from the Raharuhirukupo-style school of carving which evolved during the early 1800's.
This carving is an original work of Maori art using totara wood.
'Pipi Platter'
Image by John Penman Glass Art
Blown glass filigrana from the series "Kaimoana". Designed and made by New Zealand glass artist John Penman.
'Tupa Platter'.
Image by John Penman Glass Art
Blown glass filigrana from the series "Kaimoana". Designed and made by New Zealand glass artist John Penman.
'Toheroa Platter'
Image by John Penman Glass Art
Blown glass filigrana from the series "Kaimoana". Designed and made by New Zealand glass artist John Penman.
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