The melding of art and function reached its zenith in the construction of the Maori peoples war canoe.

Sometimes up to 110 feet long, hewn from a single log with Pounamu (Jade) tools, these canoes were worked upon only by men of rank. When launched together at up to 50 at a time and handled with great skill by the tribes most vigorous tattooed warriors, these ocean going vessels presented a formidable sight. They were often lashed together for longer sea voyages. Being used only for war, the canoe itself was highly tapu (sacred), no woman or food were allowed in the canoe. The behaviour in and around the canoe was highly ritualised, a breach of which could result in death. top

The Tauihu (Prow)

Composition:

Two open work spirals separated by three symbolic forms bound together to form a whole.

Symbolism:

The front figure represents Tangaroa (God of the sea) looking forward, the rear figure represents Tu matuenga (God of war) facing the warriors. The central figure represents Tane (God of man, land, trees and birds). The top band joining the front and rear figures represents Rangi (God of the sky), the lower joining band represents Papa (God of the earth). Tane historically separated Rangi and Papa and let light and knowledge into the world as symbolised by the two open work spirals.

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The Taurapa (Stern Post)

Composition:

A Manaia (spiritual guardian), at the top holding two ribs, one being bitten, with another Manaia at the other end. At the lower end a forward facing stylised figure. The intervening space filled with Pitau (open work spiral). The two ribs continue along the length of the canoe binding the whole construction together.

Symbolism:

The two ribs are the creative principles, knowledge and life, light and dark, material and spirit, being simultaneously attacked and defended by the Manaia. Pitau, the open work spirals, represent the entry of light and knowledge into the world. The front figure can represent a revered ancestor or Tu matuenga (God of war), moving forward and looking aggressively over the shoulders of the warriors.

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Maori War Canoe Sternpost and prow

Jade Source: South Westland, South Island, New Zealand

Description: Contemporary rendering of Maori war canoe sternpost in mid green Jade with quartz star inclusions. Contemporary rendering of Maori war canoe prow, in matching Jade.

These unique carvings are the first and only rendering of the Taurapa and Tauihu in pounamu (jade).

Artist: Richard Anderson (Tainui)

These unique carvings are the first and only rendering of the Taurapa and Tauihu in pounamu (jade).

Price: US$price on application
includes packaging, posting, insurance

length: 39cm
width: 24cm

length: 15.35inch
width: 9.45inch

length: 56.75cm
height: 14cm
width: 12.5cm

Maori War Canoe Sternpost Taurapa

length: 45cm
width: 35.5cm
width across midway: 16.5cm

length: 17.72inch
width: 13.98inch
width across midway: 6.5inch

length: 58.75cm
height: 16.75cm
width: 13.5cm