Moko Pounamu Hei Tiki Bone Carving - Ouruwera - SALE

A fabulous bone Hei Tiki with paua shell eyes.

Hei Tiki- The exact meaning behind the stylized design is deeply rooted in traditional Māori pakiwaitara (stories) and has been interpreted in a few different ways. In Māori legend, Tiki was the first mortal man created by Tāne (the god of the forest), making the carving a symbol of humankind's origins and lineage. Another widely held belief is that the figure represents Hine-te-iwaiwa, the moon goddess and patroness of fertility and childbirth. Because of its shape, many also interpret the design as a stylization of the human embryo. The distinct carved head tilted to the side is believed to symbolize a newborn child or spiritual wisdom. Additionally, the figures frequently display a blend of both male (Tāne) and female (Wāhine) features, representing the balance of life's energies.

Paua Shell – Abalone, our Paua shell is rich and deep in iridescent colours unique to New Zealand. Found all around the rocky shoreline coast but grows best in southern waters. Paua shell has been traditionally used by Maori to illuminate the eyes & features of carvings and artwork. While Paua sits within the abalone family, which is found in other parts of the world, namely, South America, Australia, Western North America, and Japan, our Paua's hidden, bright multi-coloured interior shell is only found in New Zealand.

Traditionally carved from Whale bone, however these days many bone carvings are made from cattle bone as it is an ethically abundant source.

Hand Carved by Moko Workshops

Size 34mm long x 50mm wide x 8mm thick

This is an example of the carving you will receive. You will not receive this exact piece, but one that is similar. This is due to each individual Hei Tiki being carved from natural bone where the colouring will differ depending on the elements in the bone.