New Zealand consists of Polynesia’s two largest and southernmost islands. The Māori settled the region in about 1300. For generations, they have crafted detailed carvings to convey their ideas about their religion, their ancestors, and nature. The Māori relied on canoes throughout their daily life. A native artist designed an open-form design to decorate a boat’s prow. Artists carved sculptural figures representing their ancestors inside Māori meeting houses. The incised lines on the carved faces represent the ancestors’ traditional tā moko, or tattoos.
Carving Māori Culture
New Zealand’s native people crafted works that celebrate their spiritual life and ancestors
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