Māori lidded containers like these are called kumete and are usually used for presentation items or to store food. Unlike treasure boxes (wakahuia), they are designed to be free-standing rather than hanging from the rafters. This is an example of the ‘figure-supported’ style which became popular from the 1850s. The lid is decorated with two lizards in relief and held by figures at either end marked with lines in the style of tā moko (Māori tattooing), each with inlaid mother-of-pearl eyes. The body of the container is covered with rauponga geometric carving patterns of grooves and dots.

Presented by members of the Arawa Māori Tribe, New Zealand.