Artifact Number:
 00130

Object:
Staff
Taiaha

Material:
 wood, shell (paua)

Dimensions:
 170 x 5 x 4 cm.

Origin:
 Aotearoa, New Zealand, Polynesia

Comments:
 Usually incorporates a carved face with an extended tongue. The faical expression represents a challenge offered by maori during war or welcoming rituals. The tongue is intriciately carved with spirals and the eyes are inlaid with paua shell. Mori believe their weapons are imbued with mana, spiritual power that originates from ancestors or from fallen enemies.



Collection Name: Eric Craig Collection

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BERNICE PAUAHI BISHOP MUSEUM
The State Museum of Natural and Cultural History
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