An exquisite Matau (Hook) handcrafted from the most amazing piece of Kahotea Pounamu and mounted onto a wonderful piece of water worn Inanga stone. The incredible display of colour in this carving is so unique and refreshing. Such a rare and very special carving from a very talented master carver.
Matau (Fishhook) - Originally Māori have been fishermen. Their main food source was the sea, so a fishhook of high quality was an unbelievably valuable item to own. The hook became a symbol of prosperity, abundance, good health, power, authority and respect for the sea and its life in it. They also provide good luck and safety while travelling across water.
Sculpture - Genuine West Coast Greenstone – Kahotea Greenstone from the Greenstone, West Coast area. A type streaked or flecked with white. The name Kahotea derives from Kaho, meaning light coloured tea (white or clear).
Stone mount - Genuine West Coast Inanga Pounamu takes its name from a freshwater fish native to New Zealand. It is pale and often transparent, like the young of the Inanga fish. It is pearly white to grey-green in colour, and ranges from translucent to quite opaque. It can change colour over time, developing a light olive tint as it ages and oxidises - Highly prized by the Māori and the desired material for making Mere and Patu.
Hand Carved by Ross Crump
Size
Sculpture - 110mm tall x 58mm wide
Stand - 120mm long x 190mm high (including sculpture)
