This beautiful Hei Tiki hand carved from stunning dark green Kawakawa Flower Pounamu, perfectly detailed with red wax eyes and will be a treasured taonga.
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.
Kawakawa- is the most common variety of Pounamu. it comes in many shades - from strong, rich green to dark green - and often has small dark flecks, which add to its character. Named after the leaf of the Kawakawa. It is the main type used in gem purposes.
Putiputi (Flower) Jade- is New Zealand’s most prized Greenstone, with pale green or ochre clouds of colour. This distinctive patterning and colouring come from the outside rim or 'rind' of the greenstone boulders or stones where the surface has oxidised.
Moko Pounamu- for over 40 years Moko Pounamu has both supported and contributed to the life and breath of Pounamu Carving in Aotearoa New Zealand. The extraordinary and varied qualities of this stone, also known as Greenstone (and more technically Nephrite Jade), is displayed across our range of carvings and jewellery. We are proud to support the work of many talented craftspeople local to our beautiful country, and we love sharing this range with you.
Hand Carved by Glen Surgenor
Size 83mm long x 56mm wide x 17mm 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.
