Makatu at Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich

myminifactory

Human: Carved from a single piece of lignum vitae named after it, Makutu gets its title from Maori language. According to an earlier entry in the Tate Gallery catalogue, the word means 'to cast a spell; incantation; and also sweet potato variety'. It's likely that Hepworth chose it for more abstract and mysterious definitions. In 1966 she gave a slate carving the title Two Forms (Maori). Responding to an inquiry from a curator at the Tate, Alan Bowness, the artist's executor suggested that the title Makutu might have been taken from a book sent to the artist now in his collection. 'Finding names was often a challenge', he explained. The title's allusion to magic and mystery is similar to a metaphysical quality found in many of Hepworth's works. Several titles reference religious themes - Christian, non-Christian, and pagan - and ritualistic activity in general, such as Three Forms Vertical (Offering), 1967 and three separate works with the sub-title 'amulet', meaning charm. The hollow cast bronze is typical of Hepworth's work in several ways. Its basic form is that of the original log with rounded edges. It's pierced once and while the exterior is dark bronze, internal surfaces have a pale green patina that becomes heavier towards the bottom. The hole narrows to a tilted oval shape at the back. After its acquisition by the Tate, the sculpture was cleaned of marks from outdoor display like bird lime and wax-polished. Original bolts holding it to the base were replaced with stainless steel (Tate Gallery conservation files). This object is part of "Scan The World". Scan the World is a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory through which we're creating a digital archive of 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from around the globe for public access. Scan the World is an open-source community effort. If you have interesting items and want to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to learn how you can help.