Pouaka (carved box)

This pouaka (carved box) is an unusual taonga (cultural treasure). A small, squat, carved figure supports a small, lidded box, with a small tab from the lid anchored in the figure’s mouth. The lid of the pouaka is covered with a design called puhoro (scroll pattern), which is also used in male thigh moko (Māori customary tattoo).

Sacred storageWhile the original purpose of this pouaka is unclear, it has been suggested that it was used to hold small items of sacred value, such as pigment or blades from tattooing chisels. It is also recorded that it was used to contain the tinder used for kindling the ahi-taitai (sacred fire), or for carrying smouldering tinder to relight a chief’s fire.