Ipu Whenua
Maker and role
Art by Riwa, Retailer
Riwa Wawatai, Commissioned by
Production date
2021
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Object detail
Accession number
2021.10.2
Maker
Production period
Description
Ipu Whenua. Harakeke woven placenta holder. Consists of a lid and base, the lid has a woven design around the edge.
Brief History
In Māori tikanga, following the birth of a pēpi (baby) their whenua (placenta or afterbirth) is buried, allowing it to return to Papatūānuku (the earth mother). Ipu whenua (vessels made to hold a placenta) were traditionally made from gourds, however this contemporary example is hand-woven from harakeke (flax) which will naturally biodegrade.
Media/Materials
Other name
Placenta holder
Collection
Credit Line
Art by Riwa et al. 2021. Ipu Whenua, 2021.10.2. The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT).
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