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The Maori Division of Time

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The above figure and the one on the title page represent what is usually termed the “double manaia”, a well known device in Maori carving. Manaia is the name given by natives to the grotesque bird-headed creature shown above. It often appears singly; when the double form is employed, then one is situated on either side of an equally grotesque human figure. The positions are peculiar; each manaia has its beak applied to an ear of the central figure, and the design suggests some symbolical signification. In Melanesia the same design, less conventionalised, is met with, and a similar one is reported to have been seen carved on temples in Java, though in this case corroboration would be welcomed. In India we hear of the two garudas or bird-like figures flanking the figure of Vishnu. These represent the spirits of Good and Evil, both of whom are endeavouring to influence Vishnu. With the Scandinavian god Odin two ravens are also frequently associated.

It is worthy of note that the so-called “hands” of these manaia are termed haohao, or claws, by the Maori. The three fingers that appear on the hands of old carved representations of the human figure in Maori work is a usage so ancient that its origin is lost. The peculiarity is seen in old Babylonian sculptures, in early Scandinavian art, and had been noted in the art work of many far-sundered lands.