Story: Tribal organisation

Carved self-portrait by Raharuhi Rukupō

Carved self-portrait by Raharuhi Rukupō

Raharuhi Rukupō of Rongowhakaata was one of the great tohunga whakairo (expert carvers) of the 19th century. This poupou (carved post) is in the meeting house Te Hau-ki-Tūranga. The house, a memorial to his elder brother Tāmati Wāka Māngere, was carved by Rukupō and 18 other experts. It is now held in Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum.

Using this item

Alexander Turnbull Library
Reference: 1/2-C-025301-F

Permission of the Alexander Turnbull Library, National Library of New Zealand, Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa, must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

Rāwiri Taonui, 'Tribal organisation - Social rank', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/artwork/980/carved-self-portrait-by-raharuhi-rukupo (accessed 11 May 2024)

Story by Rāwiri Taonui, published 8 Feb 2005