item details
Overview
A single round shaped poi made of prepared raupō (bulrush) leaf wrapped longitudinally around a core. A fringe of yellow and black/purple dyed muka (New Zealand flax f) at the neck disguises the attachment to a cord made of muka using miromiro (rolling technique). A yellow and black/purple tassel is attached to the end to form a handle.
What makes this poi raupō unique is the inclusion of lashing techniques adorning the ball. This type of lashing is more commonly seen on poi awe, of which Te Papa has two historical examples and one contemporary example created by Pip Devonshire. Of the current historical examples in the collection – none are lashed completely with muka, none adorn a raupō poi, and none are this intact.
The structure of the lashing around poi has a practical application. By containing the poi it stops the expansion of the material that makes the ball of the poi, providing resilience and strength allowing the poi itself to last and endure longer and harder use before breaking. Regarding adornment of the pattern itself, there are two current interpretations generally circulated by weavers in regards to this lashing technique.
Karu Atua/ Karu Whenua: Also known as the ‘gods eye’ pattern. Where the pattern itself is thought to represent the eye of God or an atua. The inside of the poi is often said to contain a karakia or inoi that is spread to those in proximity when swung and used. It is debated that this is an introduced concept that developed after contact with Europeans.
Papakirango: Also known as the ‘fly swat pattern’. The diamond pattern that adorns poi like this are said to be a variation of papakirango. This is the pattern that was used to create pre-contact woven fly swats, whariki (mats) and tukutuku panels. This pattern is generally associated with death and its use in mats on which tupapaku (deceased) rested was its most frequent use. Poi like this were said to have been used by the kirimate/whānau pane (bereaved) in order to keep flies from settling on the body during tangihanga – which in the past could go for extended lengths of time. Poi utilised for this purpose were frequently interred with the deceased which is one theory used to account for the rarity of current day surviving poi awe.