Identification of Māori Imagery
The most distinctive features of Māori imagery are:
- curvilinear designs (contained by or consisting of a curved line or lines) as depicted in moko (tattooing), kowhaiwhai (rafter patterns), and whakairo (carving).
- rectilinear designs (contained by, consisting of, or moving in a straight line or lines) as depicted in tukutuku (ornamental paneling) or taniko (embroidery).
- designs incorporating Māori objects.
Further examples of Māori imagery and design may be found in our guide to protecting intellectual property with a Māori cultural element [PDF, 1.1 MB].
Examples of curvilinear designs
Design No. 27637 |
Design No. 8525 |
Trade Mark No. 100737 |
Examples of rectilinear designs
Design No. 8524 |
Trade Mark No. 299446 |
Trade Mark No. 170545 |
Example of a design incorporating Māori objects
This charm uses a Māori whare design:
Left front perspective Design No. 13376 |
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