This waka huia (treasure box) was produced by an unknown carver, probably from the east coast of the North Island, between 1800 and 1850. The lid is dominated by a male and a female figure engaged in sexual intercourse. Sexual symbolism was often incorporated into Māori decorative art, and sexual union was celebrated rather than seen as sinful.
Te whakamahi i tēnei tūemi
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Reference:
OL000003
Permission of the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa must be obtained before any re-use of this image.
Tāpiritia te tākupu hou