Hand Carved Kauri Kiwi 30cm - by Michael Matchitt

Kiwi by Michael Matchitt

Kauri wood, finished in wax and oil

14cm x 30cm x 9cm

Culture:

This one of a kind piece of art has been hand carved in the indigenous tradition of the Māori from Aotearoa (New Zealand). Whakairo (carving) is a language which transforms Māori cultural ideals into a physical form. For centuries it has been used to record whakapapa (genealogy), traditions, and pūrākau (histories).

Series:

This piece is part of the Manu series. Manu (birds) are significant kaitiaki (guardians). In this series the carved space is representative of a womb—a protective repository for taonga (precious objects).

Style:

This style is a contemporary interpretation of a rich traditional cultural icon. The form and shape, while modern, are achieved through the use of traditional tools and practices. The artist uses chisel and mallet, not sandpaper, to create the smooth surface and clean lines.

Surface patterning:

Pākati and haehae are contemporary surface patterns more commonly found in Post-European carvings than their Pre-European predecessors. They can be used to decorate and to represent lines of whakapapa. 

About the North Island Brown Kiwi:

The only kiwi in the wild in the North Island. Widespread in native forest and scrub, pine forests, and rough farmland.  Flightless, with tiny vestigial wings and no tail. Nocturnal, therefore more often heard than seen. Male gives a repeated high-pitched ascending whistle, and the female gives a deeper throaty cry.  Dark brown, streaked lengthways with reddish brown and black.  Long pale bill, short dark legs and toes, often with dark claws.


About NZ Kauri