Whatu Kakahu: Maori Cloaks

A Celebration of the Science and Art of Maori Weaving, Focused on the Largest Collection of Maori Cloaks in the World. Whatu Kakahu | Maori Cloaks unlocks the doors of Te Whare Pora o Hine-teiwaiwa,the Te Papa storeroom, to reveal one of the largest collection of kakahu in the world. Informative essays by expert contributors outline the intricate techniques employed in kakahu construction and also explain the tradition and spiritual significance of weaving. A major section examines forty kakahu from the Te Papa collection in detail, revealing their often remarkable provenance. In this revised edition, a new chapter celebrates stunning contemporary kakahu that have come into the Te Papa collection since 2011. It also discusses the care and continuity of Maori cloak weaving from the viewpoint of weaving practitioners, researchers and museum custodians. Illustrated throughout with stunning photographs showing the immense beauty of these taonga, Whatu Kakahu: Maori Cloaks is an unparalleled celebration of the matauranga, science, and art of Maori weaving.