Many Polynesians consider these jewels a lucky charm. In addition to these statuettes, there are bone or coral pendants representing Tikis. There are also small Tikis, usually made of wood or stone, for travelers wishing to leave with a souvenir of our islands. Sculpting and tattooing Tikis are both rigorous arts. In addition to inspiring sculptors, nowadays Tikis are also very often represented in the art of tattooing. There are Tikis representing power, knowledge, wisdom, prosperity and many other strong concepts. Of course, depending on the material, sometimes the techniques differ.īut what undeniably unites the craftsmen is this passion for their culture and this desire to engrave it forever. Formerly cut only from stone, Tikis are now shaped with different materials: wood, bone, jade or coral. Sculpting Tikis is an art that requires a lot of time and patience. Although the Tikis were traditionally found near the marae (sacred places built in the open and paved with stones), you can find them in different places. There is in a way a certain similarity between the Tikis and the poses of the Polynesian war dances. The mouth is usually open and lets you it’s shouting. Its face is so expressive that the large eyes give the impression that its is looking at you while observing what is happening around. Rather stocky, its arms are usually resting on its stomach its his head is often out of proportion compared to the rest of the body. Half-man, half-god, the Tiki symbolizes a mythical character who created human beings. The most famous are probably the “Moai”, the monumental statues of Easter Island. Originating from the Marquesas Islands, Tikis are also present in most islands of the Polynesian triangle. The first stone sculpture representing a Tiki dates back to the 13th century.
The Tiki is a real emblem of French Polynesia and holds a significant position in the local culture.
A Tiki is a sculpture endowed with an important spiritual and symbolic force, originating from the Marquesas Islands and usually representing a modified man.
0 kommentar(er)
