item details
NamePou tokomanawa (carved centre post)
ProductionUnknown; carver; 1800-1900; New Zealand
ClassificationPoutokomanawa, posts, carvings
Materialswood, pāua (abalone shell), paint
Techniquescarving
DimensionsOverall: 350mm (width), 1650mm (height), 270mm (depth)
Registration NumberME000246
Credit lineAcquisition details/history unknown. Found in collection, 1904
Overview
This pou tokomanawa (carved centre-post) is the first of three upright posts that support the tāhuhu (ridge pole) of a large whare tūpuna (ancestral house) or whare rūnanga (tribal council house), providing structural stability and supporting the roof. The male figure is fully carved with ta moko (facial tattoo) and is holding a patu (club), indicating his chiefly and warrior status.
Ancestors
Pou tokomanawa usually have a carved representation of a significant tribal tupuna (ancestor) at their base, facing the entrance to the house. Most pou tokomanawa in museum collections today appear as free-standing carved figures because they have been sawn from the main pole by collectors.