item details
NamePoi (kinetic percussion instrument)
ProductionUnknown; weaver; 1850 - 1950
Classificationpoi, percussion instruments
Materialsbulrush, wood, cloth
Materials SummaryRaupō (bulrush), woodchips, cloth
Techniquesweaving
DimensionsOverall: 59.5mm (width), 83.8mm (length), 13.6g (weight)
Registration NumberME004180
Overview
Oval shaped poi made of prepared raupō (bulrush) leaf wrapped longitudinally.
The raupō has been tied at the neck with a length of harakeke (New Zealand flax). Red fabric protrudes from the ball to form a handle and has been prepared by miromiro (rolling technique). Damage/breakdown of the raupō that makes this poi has exposed the inner stuffing which appears to be a combination of wood shavings and other natural material.
This poi demonstrates the incorporation of introduced post contact elements to traditional poi making through the use of red European fabric prepared via a traditional technique.
The use of woodchips in this poi is an example of the diversity and variety of stuffing used in contemporary and classic poi.