Tattooed History: The Story of Mokomokai

The first book to explore the history of Mokomokai, the preserved tattooed heads of Maori ancestors, is "Tattooed History: The Story of Mokomokai." It discusses how Mokomokai were first encountered by Europeans, how they were preserved and exhibited, and how they were acquired by museums and institutions. The practice of preserving heads ended with European settlement, and few Mokomokai remained in New Zealand. This book also describes the auction and sale of Mokomokai in Britain for over 150 years, and how legal challenges by Maori led to comprehensive repatriation strategies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 09 August 2021
Publisher: Five Continents Editions

The captivating tale of Mokomokai, the first book to delve into the rich history of these remarkable Maori ancestors, unfolds before your eyes. While the intricate facial markings (ta moko) of the Maori have garnered widespread recognition, the unique preservation of tattooed heads, whether of enemies or loved ones, remains somewhat lesser known. This groundbreaking work presents a multitude of sources, documents, and illustrations, offering a fresh and innovative perspective on its subject matter.

Mokomokai first came into the eyes of Europeans during the exploratory voyage of James Cook across the lands of New Zealand. As missionaries, traders, and other visitors delved deeper into the world of Mokomokai, they penned the initial descriptions of their preservation and the customs associated with them. This captivating book delves into these early nineteenth-century writings, shedding light on how Mokomokai were initially showcased to curious foreign onlookers around the same time.

The acquisition of Mokomokai by outsiders, frequently in exchange for weapons, is explored in depth, as is their role in forming the earliest collections of museums and institutions. However, as European settlement expanded, the practice of preserving heads came to an end, leaving New Zealand with a limited number of these remarkable artifacts. While New Zealand established its own museums, they often had to source Mokomokai from outside the country. This work chronicles the auction and sale of Mokomokai in Britain for a span of over 150 years, discussing the collecting efforts of renowned British collectors such as Horatio Gordon Robley and W.O. Oldman, who frequently provided Mokomokai to New Zealand institutions.

The public sale of Mokomokai at auction in Britain came to a halt when Maori launched legal challenges against such sales. The legal strategies employed by the Maori to protect their cultural heritage are examined, along with how they were eventually replaced.

Mokomokai, with their intricate facial markings and unique preservation practices, continue to captivate the world, shedding light on the rich tapestry of Maori culture and history. This book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to understand the fascinating story of these remarkable ancestors.

Weight: 682g
Dimension: 196 x 241 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788874399659