Moko Pounamu Mere NZ Genuine Inanga Greenstone - Opihi

An exquisite Mere handcrafted from an amazing piece of Inanga Pounamu. Sourced from South Westland this Mere is a special carving and a wonderful heirloom for generations to come.

Mere or Patu is a type of short, broad-bladed weapon in the shape of an enlarged tear drop. It was used to strike/jab an opponent in the body or the head. The Mere signifies high status and gives the owner courage and strength. It is the same design as a Patu, but the difference is a Patu is made of wood, stone, or whale bone whereas Meres are made of Greenstone Pounamu.

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.

A quality piece to be treasured and preserved for your children and children's children.

You will receive this exact Mere and stand as well as a wooden box for storage and shipping.

Hand Carved by Paul Anderson

Size 342mm long x 99mm wide x 27mm 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.