Moko Pounamu Hei Matau Genuine Whale Bone Carving - Waipapa

Carved by Owen Mapp, this large whale bone Hei Matau makes a bold impression with its sweeping hook shape and richly detailed surface. Carved spirals and rhythmic grooves follow the outer curve, framing an open centre that gives the piece a strong, sculptural presence. Soft ivory tones and natural variations in the bone highlight the depth of the carving.

Suspended from a black cord, the pendant’s generous proportions make it a striking statement piece. Representing Tangaroa and the wish for good fishing, this fishing amulet holds particular meaning for those with a connection to the sea. Its flowing form and intricate detailing offer plenty to appreciate, whether worn or displayed as part of a treasured collection.

Hei 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 traveling across water.

Kowhaiwhai- The Kowhaiwhai is a traditional Māori pattern that is used in whakairo (carving) and art, as well as being decorative, Kowhaiwhai patterns also help to tell a story. Kowhaiwhai in whare tipuna (meeting houses) are specially designed for the iwi (tribe) the house belongs to. It tells stories about their history. Kowhaiwhai are painted on the rafters or the tahuhu (ridgepole) of the house stretching the length of the building. The Kowhaiwhai painted on the ridgepole represents the whakapapa (genealogy) of the iwi (tribe). Nature is often the inspiration for these beautiful and stunning patterns.

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.

Size 135mm long x 107mm 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.