Kiwi Feathered Taiaha by Master Carver Mel Manu

A Mel Manu taiaha adorned with kiwi feathers. A weapon of hardwood with one end carved to represent a head with a protruding tongue, and other representing the body of a warrior. The upoko (head) and the arero (tongue) are heavily carved in the traditional manner with inlaid paua eyes. This taiaha has been chisel carved from one single slab of native t?tara timber. This weapon was used like a fighting staff. Exponents of the taiaha were, and are, highly skilled. They were able to move swiftly and elusively with fluid movements so as to manoeuvre themselves into a favourable striking position. This taiaha has been chisel carved in traditional patterns by master carver Mel Manu. Mel was born in the Taranaki area. Mel was one of a handful of master carvers in New Zealand at the time who consistently pursued the traditional way of chisel carving. Length 153 cm, width 7 cm