Godstick (tiki wananga) c. early 19th century

This "Godstick (tiki wananga)" is a traditional Maori carving from the early 19th century, now in the collection of the Minneapolis Institute of Art. The small, intricately carved wooden figure, decorated with inlaid shell eyes, is a powerful example of the artistry and cultural significance of Maori carving. The "tiki wananga" would have been used in ceremonies and rituals, representing ancestors and deities and serving as a conduit for spiritual power. The intricate patterns and stylized human form are characteristic of Maori art, reflecting their deep connection to the natural world and their ancestral heritage.