item details
Overview
Dr Te Atiwei Ririnui, skills and knowledge in rāranga (weaving) were founded on the intuitive teachings of his grandfather. Through instructive splicing and braiding techniques, this created the foundation for his passion for kete whakairo (patterned baskets).
This kete whakairo named "Poutama Ahurewa" was woven and completed in April 2020 by Dr Te Atiwei Ririnui (Ngāpuhi, Ngātiwai, Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāti Awa, Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Mutunga, Ngāti Toa Rangatira and Te Ātiawa).
Construction
Poutama Ahurewa is woven from black dyed and natural white boiled kiekie (Freycinetia Banksii) using traditional rāranga technique. Natural white muka (New Zealand flax fibre) has been braided and attached to form the handles of this kete whakairo.
Design
Poutama Ahurewa is a two-step design symbolising the journey of two distinguished ancestors and their ascent to Ngā Rangitūhaha (The Twelve Heavens) to gather Ngā Kete o te Wānanga (Three Baskets of Knowledge) and descended to Papatūānuku (Mother Earth). These two ancestors are named Tane-nui-a-rangi and Tawhaki-nui-a-hema.
The word Poutama refers to a vertical and horizontal step design symbolic of a male’s quest to obtain knowledge, and more commonly known in woven tukutuku panels – Poutama steps signifies progression and elevation. The word ahurewa is broken down into two words ahu, to ascend, and rewa, to descend. In this kete design, the scaffolding step to the left is Ahu. The cascading step to the right is rewa – combining Poutama, its design is named, Poutama Ahurewa.
"The purpose of this kete whakairo is to illustrate one’s ability to progress and elevate above life challenges and obstacles. The kete complexity, intricacy, and mastery of its woven design demonstrates the discipline and endurance needed to overcome life challenges. ".
Dr Te Atiwei Ririnui, 2020