Maori Carved Kauri Wood Two-Faced Tiki Figure with Paua Shell Eyes

Oceania, New Zealand, Maori. A standing tiki figure carved from a single length of kauri wood, polished to a warm honeyed brown that brings out the swirl of the grain. The tall head rises to a stepped, ridged crown above a brow of curling fern-frond scrolls. Its large almond eyes are inlaid with iridescent paua shell, and its mouth turns into a tight double spiral. A second face, also with paua eyes, is carved on the torso between spiral-carved shoulders, and the arms curve inward to frame it. Flexed legs, each marked with a koru spiral, rest on a plinth cut with chevrons and parallel grooves. The four shell eyes and the stacked faces suggest the figure may represent Ngatoroirangi, the navigator gifted with second sight, though no inscription confirms it. In Te Arawa tradition, Ngatoroirangi was the tohunga (priestly expert) and navigator of the Te Arawa canoe on its voyage from Hawaiki to Aotearoa. Tradition credits him with the power of matakite, or second sight, which let him see dangers ahead and guide the canoe safely. Later stories send him inland, where he climbed Tongariro and called on his sisters in Hawaiki to send sacred fire. That fire is traditionally said to explain the geothermal activity of the central North Island. Carvers sometimes show heightened spiritual sight by doubling the eyes or faces of a figure. Paua shell, which gives off shifting blue and green light, is the traditional inlay for eyes in Maori carving. On this figure, the identification with Ngatoroirangi is a suggestion based on its iconography, not a documented title. Parts from certain animal species including nacre shell may require an additional license upon import into another country due to legislation relating to endangered species and environmental conservation. If you are not sure whether CITES rules apply to your item, please see the CITES Appendices. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. Item # 206048

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