Moko Pounamu Heru Genuine Whale Bone Carving - Tarata

Carved by Owen Mapp, this striking whale bone Heru features a protective Manaia head, brought to life with an iridescent pāua eye. Flowing spirals, finely carved grooves and openwork curves give the upper section depth and movement, beautifully complemented by the soft ivory tones of the genuine whale bone.

Measuring 257mm long and 52mm wide, the Heru’s elongated form extends into slender, tapered teeth, creating an elegant silhouette when worn in the hair or displayed. Crafted from whale bone ethically sourced from Kapiti Island, this distinctive piece brings together intricate decorative detail and the sculptural beauty of a traditional comb.

Bone Heru- used by Māori to fasten long hair into a top knot. These also identified the rank of the wearer and were usually carved from a single piece of whale bone or wood and on occasion decorated with paua shell. Traditionally carved from Whale bone

Whale 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 strandings 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 Kapiti Island.

Carved by Owen Mapp

Size 257mm long x 52mm wide

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.