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   | MAORI Wahaika Wahaikas were highly prized by their owners and were passed down from generation to generation. This example is truly a stunning work of art. |
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| MAORI Wahaika Wahaikas were highly prized by their owners and were passed down from generation to generation. This example is truly a stunning work of art. |
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HE whalebone used in Maori clubs was cut from the 'pan' section of the lower jaw of the sperm whale. Bone from this part of the skeleton is extremely strong and dense. This example has a figure carved above its handle which itself terminates in a mask. Two of the three holes drilled in the handle represent the eyes of this mask and the third or central one was intended for a thong for suspension from a warrior's waist. Of the four holes drilled in the figure, two are triangular in shape, typical of the early period of this club. Speculation has it that the "sinus" on the other side of the club was for attaching feathers.