Carved by Andrew McGregor from striking Nelson blue pounamu, this hei tiki is a bold and beautifully crafted taonga. The figure has a classic form: the head tilts to one side, with large, rounded eyes and the protruding tongue. One hand rests across the chest and the other on the hip, while the legs fold gracefully beneath the body. The stone has a rich, deep blue-green colour with soft cloud-like movement through it, and its high polish catches the light across every curve and carved line.
The hei tiki is one of the most treasured forms in Māori carving, long associated with protection, fertility and connection to those who have gone before. This piece hangs from a plaited brown cord with a neatly bound finish, and the carver’s mark on the reverse confirms its authenticity. Substantial and full of character, it’s a meaningful taonga to wear close, or to gift to mark a birth, a milestone or a new chapter in life.
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.
Inanga- Pounamu takes its name from a freshwater fish native to New Zealand. It is pale and often transparent, like the young of the Inanga fish. It is pearly white to grey green in colour, and ranges from translucent to quite opaque. It can change colour over time, developing a light olive tint as it ages and oxidises - Highly prized by the Māori and the desired material for making Mere and Patu.
Pounamu
can benefit the wearer on many levels. Physically Pounamu is a healing crystal. It differs from Jadeite in that it heals all chakras and brings strength to all areas which are weakened in the body. Pounamu has a protective nature. It offers protection when travelling.
A protection shell/stone that brings the gentle healing power of the sea to you. As a stress relieving stone, it brings relaxation and soothing to its wearer and the ability to calm emotion. Mother of Pearl also stimulates intuition, imagination, sensitivity, and adaptability.
Hand Carved by Andrew McGregor
Hei Tiki Size 85mm long x 50mm wide x 9mm 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.
