Poi Kura Necklace

item details

NamePoi Kura Necklace

ProductionMatthew McIntyre-Wilson; artist; 2016; Wellington

Classificationnecklaces

Materialscopper-silicon alloy, fine silver, sterling silver, silk, feather, glue

Materials SummaryCopper, silver, silk thread, ten cent coin and karoro (black billed gull) feathers

Techniqueswhatu aho rua, silversmithing

Dimensions480mm

Registration NumberME024277

Credit linePurchased 2017

Overview

Poi Kura necklace.

This Poi Kura necklace made by Matthew McIntyre Wilson (Ngā Māhanga, Taranaki). It is made with a copper, fine silver and handmade silk cord. The pendant is a New Zealand ten cent coin, with karoro (black billed gull) feathers arranged around the coin.

The name Poi Kura can be interpreted as feathered poi (ball) or precious poi. Both ideas are encapsulated within Matthew’s interpretation of the Poi Kura necklace. The use of poi as an accompaniment, as an instrument and a symbolic reference to travel is known as a speciality to Taranaki iwi, who are widely known for their use of poi accompaniment with mōteatea (chants). Further Taranaki reference in this taonga also uses the raukura or kura ma, the white feather which is a symbol of peace. The raukura ma, a well-known Taranaki symbol which can be seen in iwi motifs today.