NEW ZEALAND MAORI HAIR COMB
Traditional and Contemporary Designs
"WORN BY WARRIORS"
WAKAHUIA
Treasure or Feather Box
The Maori Wakahuia, also known as a Treasure or Feather Box, is used to store and protect precious items, such as huia feathers. These feathers were highly regarded due to their association with individuals of high status.
Derived from the Maori words "waka" (container or vessel) and "huia" (a now-extinct bird), the term "wakahuia" refers to the box's purpose and the material it once held. These boxes were typically hand-carved from wood and adorned with intricate carvings and inlays, often incorporating materials like Paua (abalone) shell. The top of the wakahuia usually featured decorative carvings, such as figures like the Tiki, symbolizing good luck in Maori culture.
Wakahuia weren't only used for huia feathers but also for other precious items, or "taonga," and were often given names. They held significant cultural and familial value, passed down through generations within Maori families and commonly hung from rafters in homes for safekeeping.
This Wakahuia measures 20cm long, 10cm high, and 12cm deep.
Exclusive to Tuwharetoa Bone.
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