Nga Tapuwai o Hine I 2003
From the 'Manawa' series 2003
by Paerau Corneal (born 1961), Te Ati Haunui-a-Paparangi/Ngati Uenuku/Ngati Tuwharetoa/Ngati Karauia
Australian raku-fired clay
Purchased 2003

Mana Wahine - Prestige of woman
This work by Paerau Corneal is from her 'Manawa' (heart) series representing creation, whakapapa (genealogy), and the mana of Māori women.

The form of this work is influenced by the tiki (fertility symbol), as well as the poutokomanawa (central supporting post) figures of the meeting house.

The work is also an acknowledgement of those women who play important roles that go unnoticed on the marae (tribal community centre) or in the community.