Cast from an original carving in lignum vitae of the same name, Makutu takes its title from Maori. According to an earlier Tate Gallery catalogue entry, the word means 'to bewitch; a spell or incantation; and also a variety of sweet potato' . It is probable that Hepworth would have chosen it for the more abstract and mysterious definitions. In 1966 she had given a slate carving the title Two Forms (Maori). In answer to an enquiry from a Tate curator, Alan Bowness, the artist's executor, suggested that the title Makutu might have been taken from a book that was sent to the artist and was now in his own collection. 'Finding names was often a bit of a problem', he explained. The title's allusion to magic and mystery may be compared to a metaphysical quality suggested by many of Hepworth's works. Several titles include references to religious themes - Christian, non-Christian and pagan - and to ritualistic activity in general, such as Three Forms Vertical (Offering), 1967 and three separate works with the sub-title 'amulet', meaning a charm. 

The hollow cast bronze is typical of Hepworth's work in a number of ways. Its basic form is that of the original log with the edges rounded. It is pierced once and, while the exterior is dark bronze, the internal surfaces have a pale green patination that becomes heavier towards the bottom. The hole narrows to a tilted, more regular oval shape at the back. After its acquisition by the Tate, the sculpture was cleaned of marks resulting from its display out of doors, such as bird lime, and wax-polished. The 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 are creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks and landmarks from across the globe for the public to access for free. Scan the World is an open source, community effort, if you have interesting items around you and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to find out how you can help.