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A tekoteko is a three dimensional figure that requires the carver to constantly change his perception from one of looking at things front on to looking at things in a complete circle. Changes on one part of a tekoteko impacts on other parts of the figure. It is therefore important that, before a carver starts his figure, he has a picture in his mind of what the finished figure should look like. The tekoteko took pride of place on the apex of a wharenui [meeting house] and as with all things Maori, the tekoteko should have a function.
A tekoteko in a meeting house should be strong enough to serve the purpose for which it was designed.Tekoteko at the base of a poutokomanawa [heart of a wharenui]should be shaped in such a way so as to support the weight of the Tuaahu[backbone of a wharenui]If it doesn't achieve the primary function then it is of no value.All tekoteko either in the wharenui or anywhere usually carried the name of an ancestor .
This tekoteko is a replica of a old tekoteko which was fashioned after it's creator Iwirakau. As a carver, Iwirakau was one of the first to experiment with the use of shadow to convey a sense of depth in Whakairo.The original tekoteko was part of a poutokomanawa at one time which is why there is a postlike shape behind the figure. This is an original work of art.