An incredible and magnificent high quality, handcrafted Tiki with amazing definition of the features that make a Tiki what it is. Carved from ethically sourced whale bone from the Chatham Islands, with Paua inlay eyes highlighting the attention to detail that makes this carver stand out. 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. Presented on a steel stand, mounted onto a piece of Rimu wood.
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.
