A stunning Rei Puta (Eye Tooth) with strong intricately decorated traditional Kowhaiwhai pattern carved into the face. Whale tooth consists almost entirely of dentine.
Rei Puta
are chiefly taonga traditionally carved from the teeth of Tohorā (whale). Rei Niho carved from pounamu maintains the beauty of the traditional form, symbolising the intimate connection between Maori and Tohorā.
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. Tooth consists almost entirely of dentine.
Genuine Whale Tooth - Ethically sourced from the Chatham Islands.
Carved by Alex Sands
Size 82mm long x 20mm wide x 8mm 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.
