Name/Title
Aotearoa (New Zealand) Waka SternEntry/Object ID
MK_0325Description
Hailing from Aotearoa (New Zealand), this contemporary peice was crafted to adorn the stern of a Māori canoe, likely a formidable vessel such as a war canoe (waka taua). Visually stunning, the stern adornment boast swirling patterns akin to those tattooed on warriors and carved on ancestral sculptures, including a canoe bailer and prow in the Mauna Kea’s collection. Each curve and groove tells a story, reflecting the cultural and spiritual significance ingrained in Māori art.
Adding to its allure, the stern is adorned with inlaid iridescent shells, showcasing the Māori tradition of incorporating natural elements into their creations. These shells not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also symbolize the connection between the Māori people and the land and sea.
As a vital component of Māori maritime tradition, this stern-piece not only embodies the skillful craftsmanship of its makers but also serves as a tangible link to Māori heritage and identity, preserving the legacy of the waka taua for generations to come.
This treasured piece has been in the Mauna Kea's collection since 1965, when Laurance Rockefeller developed the hotel, and was very recently restored.Made/Created
Place
Country
Aotearoa (New Zealand)Continent
OceaniaDimensions
Height
80-1/2 inLength
17 inLocation
* Untyped Location
1st Floor Kohala EndFloor
1st FloorBuilding
Beach WingRoom
2nd Floor Art Storage Room* Untyped Location
2nd Floor Kohala EndFloor
2nd FloorBuilding
Beach WingRoom
Kamani RoomBuilding
HBR Main TowerFloor
1st FloorBuilding
Beach Wing