Tapuvae (Stilt step)

Tapuvae. Stilt step. This tapuvae or vaeake (stilt step) would have been used in races or fighting on stilts for sport. It is carved from hardwood with a supporting stylised tiki figure placed at an angle and incised with decorative surface carving. The form narrows and finishes to a stake at base. The tapuvae is narrow in width with a curved bar atop the figure to accommodate a foot. The straight back of the tapuvae is concave across the width so as to fit to a longer shaft to complete the stilt. The two components would have been lashed securely together with nape (coconut sennit). Cracks appear in the wood. Small performations at either side of the form possibly for previous display. A metal bracket is visible on the back of the form. The tapuvae is dark red brown in colour with patina.