Open daily, 10am–5pm, Free

419 Great King Street Dunedin, New Zealand

From Monday 27 November – Friday 1 December, the Tūhura Science Centre and Tropical Forest will be closed for maintenance. 
We strive to produce the best experience for our visitors and this will allow us to make our Science Centre better for years to come.

Hei Tiki, D65.919

Physical Description

Pounamu/ Nephrite, inanga variety, large hei tiki, Westland source. Head turned to left. Serrated paua shell inlaid into eyes. Nostrils indicated. Pointed tongue, chin and forehead. Arms rest on thighs, legs joined with three toes either foot. Perforation drilled front at centre top through scarf cut across rear. High translucency and some feather fracturing.

Research Notes

Confirmed a Westland source (probably the Arahura-Hokitika area); that it was made with stone tools, and was heated after carving (the back more so that the front); and most likely post-contact/made for trade. —Russell Beck

Provenance

Purchased in Burlington Arcade

Measurements

Maximum dimensions (H x W x D): 166 x 95 x 20mm

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