Moko Pounamu Hei Tiki genuine Whale Bone Carving - Ngahere

A magnificent handcrafted Hei Tiki with amazing definition of the features that make a Tiki what it is. Carved from ethically sourced whale bone pulled up from the bottom of the Hikurangi Trench, with Goat Horn and Paua inlay eyes highlighting the attention to detail that makes this carver stand out. Handcarved in 2017 this carving is a very special taonga that will be passed through many generations and treasured by those who have the honour of being its caretaker.

Tooth and Bone has always been a special medium for Māori artists, Whales are considered a taonga species, and represent abundance, richness and were regarded as chiefly animals.

Some tribes see whales as the descendants of Tangaroa, the god of the ocean and stranding's are seen as gifts from Tangaroa and carving them is a way of honouring that gift. Whales possess a tapu (sacred) significance to Māori as both supernatural beings and as harbingers of personal change and spiritual growth.

Genuine Whale bone - Ethically sourced from the Chatham Islands.

Carved by Owen Mapp CNZM

Size 191mm long x 62mm wide x 20mm thick

This will be the exact piece you will receive in the photos, there may be a slight degree of colour variation based on different computer or device screen resolutions that you are viewing from.