item details
NameKahu huruhuru (feather cloak)
ProductionUnknown; weaver; 1900-1920; New Zealand
Classificationkahu huruhuru, cloaks
Materialsmuka (fibre), feather, wool, cloth
Techniquestwining, hand sewing
DimensionsOverall: 1250mm (width), 720mm (height)
Registration NumberME003715
Credit lineBequest of Mrs E H Blair in memory of her late husband, Archibald Anderson Watt, 1918
Overview
Kahu huruhuru (full feather cloaks) are garments of great distinction, much sought after since the 1880s.
The vivid pattern of this kahu huruhuru is created by emerald green and white kereru (New Zealand pigeon) feathers, with dashes of colour from maroon and brassy red kereru feathers. The weaver has added a row of cream and brown chicken feathers at the top of the cloak, and a single bluish-black tui feather.
In the Maori world, birds are children of Tane (deity of the forest), andmessengers between people and gods. Stories celebrate their ability to take other forms – the demi-god Maui could transform himself into a kereru.