item details
NamePatu muka (flax fibre pounder)
ProductionUnknown; stonemason; 1500-1850
ClassificationPatu muka, pestles
Materialsandesite
DimensionsOverall: 272mm (height), 78mm (length), 2079g (weight)
Registration NumberME001500
Credit linePurchased 1907
Overview
A rare and well carved patu muka used in the preparation of muka (dressed fibre of New Zealand flax) for the production of traditional Maori clothing, particularly fine cloaks. Patu muka with carved heads, as in this example, are largely confined to the Tai Hauāuru (west-coast, North Island of New Zealand) region.