Māmari

Māmari is a term primarily associated with the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand. It refers to the act of preserving heads, a practice traditionally carried out on respected ancestors.

Process and Significance:

The process of creating a Māmari, often translated as "preserved head," was a complex and sacred undertaking. It involved carefully removing the brain, eyes, and other soft tissues. The head was then boiled or steamed in an oven, smoked over an open fire, and dried in the sun. Finally, it was treated with shark oil. This meticulous process aimed to preserve the features of the deceased.

The Māmari held deep spiritual and cultural significance. These preserved heads were not merely relics but were considered repositories of the individual's mana (spiritual power or prestige). They were often kept in carved boxes and brought out for special occasions, ceremonies, or important tribal gatherings. The Māmari served as a tangible link to the ancestors and a reminder of their wisdom and contributions to the tribe.

Motivations and Decline:

Preservation was reserved for high-ranking individuals. For enemies, the heads could be taken as trophies of war, highlighting the victor's prowess and diminishing the defeated's mana.

The practice of creating Māmari largely declined in the 19th century due to European colonization and the trade in heads with European collectors. This trade led to increased warfare and the desecration of ancestral remains. Colonial authorities eventually outlawed the practice.

Repatriation:

Efforts are ongoing to repatriate Māmari held in museums and private collections around the world to their tribal descendants in New Zealand, allowing for proper burial and restoration of respect to the ancestors.