Te baiku

Te baiku. Rasp. This is the iku (skin) of a baiku (stingray; dasyatidae). It has been coiled and dried hard into its rolled form. Its coiled form feature a protuding end that curves upwards. The surface texture of the epidermis is comprised of small raised bumps in differing heights and nestled in close proximity. These vary in white, ivory and tan tones. The underside of the skin appears smooth and of a mid brown colour. Remnants of sand remain in crevices and surface areas of the underside of the iku. The iku has been coiled in this position for its potential use 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 mounted to the desired form depending on its end intentions.