Te baiku

Te baiku. Rasp. This is the iku (skin) of a baiku (stingray; dasyatidae). It has coiled and dried hard into its rolled form. The surface texture of the epidermis is comprised of small raised bumps in differing heights and nestled in close proximity. These vary in white and ivory. The underside of the skin appears smooth and of a mid brown colour. Remnants of sand remain in crevices and surface of the underside of the iku. The iku has been coiled in this position to potentially be used in producing a tool used for rasping or filing. Depending on its size, it is also known to be used as a surface in woven armoury. The iku can be soaked in water to soften its form and then mount to the desired form depending on its end intentions.