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Karetao (articulated marionette figure); Unknown; 1800-1900; OL000175

Karetao (articulated marionette figure), Unknown, 1800-1900, OL000175
FromMuseum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Name/Title
Karetao (articulated marionette figure)
About this object
Karetao are ceremonial marionettes in the form of men. The body, legs, and head are usually carved from a single piece of wood. The arms and, occasionally, the legs are articulated. They are operated by tightening and releasing attached cords. In this manner karetao were made to imitate the haka (fierce rhythmic dance) by the operator to the accompaniment of waiata (chant).

Purpose

It is thought that karetao were used primarily to instruct young people in tribal history. However, there is one recorded account of a giant karetao being operated by an iwi (tribe) from their fortified pā (stockaded village) when under siege to taunt and defy the enemy.

Details

This karetao has articulated arms attached by cord, and well-cut moko (tattoo) on the face and thighs.

See more at Te Papa's Collections Online: http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/objectdetails.aspx?oid=212846
Maker
Unknown
Maker Role
carver
Date Made
1800-1900
Place Made
New Zealand
Medium and Materials
wood
Measurements
530 x 100 x 73mm
Object Type
marionette
Object number
OL000175

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Results from DigitalNZ

Karetao are ceremonial marionettes in the form of men. The body, legs, and head are usually carved from a single piece of wood. The arms and, occasionally, the legs are articulated. They are operated by tightening and releasing attached cords. In this manner karetao were made to imitate the haka (fierce rhythmic dance) by the operator to the accompaniment of waiata (chant). Purpose It is thought that karetao were used primarily to instruct young people in tribal history. However, there is one recorded account of a giant karetao being operated by an iwi (tribe) from their fortifed pa (stockaded village) when under seige to taunt and defy the enemy. Details This karetao has articulated arms attached by cord, and well-cut moko (tattoo) on the face and thighs.
Karetao / Keretao (articulated marionette figure)
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Karetao / Keretao (articulated marionette figure)
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Karetao / Keretao (articulated marionette figure)
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
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