Koruru (gable mask)

This large, figurativelydecorated koruru or parata (gable mask) was carvedwith metal chisels, probably in the mid to late 19th century. The proportions of the face are exaggerated, with a large, pronounced forehead, broad nose, expansive eyelids over small ovoid eyes, and tiny ears. The mouth suggests a smile and the expression is that of a young, maleface.Part ofhismoko (Maori customary tattoo) above the top lip is incomplete or missing.

This koruru is unusualbecause it is carved figuratively. There is a generally accepted convention that customary carving on whare tupuna were usually abstract representations. This particular koruru breakswith that custom.

Koruru
We do not know much about this particular koruru, its origins or the people to whom it belonged. Koruru are architectural features on large whare tupuna or wharenui (meeting houses) that join the two front facing maihi (barge boards) at the top apex. A koruru's face is also the face of the represented tupuna (ancestor) embodied in the carved constructed form of the whare tupuna.