item details
Mr J W Giles; engraver (printmaker); 1847
Overview
ORNAMENTAL CARVINGS IN WOOD.
1. The celebrated image of Rangihaeata carved by himself. This forms the lower portion of the central pillar supporting the roof of Rangihaeata's house on the Island of Mana, called "Kai Tangata," or "Eat Man," of which a representation has been given in a previous plate. This image is about four feet high, and occupies the centre of the inner compartment of the building: it is carved out of very hard wood of a dark color. The eyes are inlaid with pawa or pearl shell (Haliotis.)
2. Stern-post of a large canoe from the river Thames.
3. Papa, a carved box for the reception of the tail feathers of the huia (Neomorpha Gouldii) which are worn in the hair by the chiefs on all occasions of ceremony.
4. Another box for similar purposes, also for holding various small articles of value. The box with its contents is frequently tapu or sacred, so that none but the owner is permitted to touch it. These boxes are richly ornamented, and vary considerably in form and size.
5. Head of a carved wooden spear about twelve feet long, from the Nga-ti-awa tribe. This weapon was mentioned by Captain Cook, but is obsolete at the present time.
6. Raised stand for supporting tapued articles consecrated to the dead. Found amongst the ruins of Waitahanui Pah at Lake Taupo.
7. A sketch in Port Nicholson Harbour.
Text for plate 46: The New Zealanders illustrated / by George French Angas. -- London: Thomas M'Lean, 1847 (RB001060)