This substantial Koru pendant, 80mm in diameter, is hand-carved from genuine whale bone by artist Fumio Noguchi. The bone shows warm, mottled tones, ranging from soft grey-cream through to speckled sandy-brown patterning across the surface, giving the piece real depth and natural character. A finely detailed spiral of surface carving traces the inner curve of the Koru, adding texture and craftsmanship to the bold, rounded form. The Koru design represents new life, growth, and new beginnings, and at this larger size makes a striking, wearable statement piece. Hung on an adjustable cord, this one-of-a-kind taonga showcases both the natural beauty of bone and the skill of its carver.
Koru- The Māori word for bright or loop. It refers to the shoots of the silver fern. The circular movement to the inner core refers to "going back to the beginnings". The unfurling frond itself is symbolic for new life, new beginnings, hope, personal growth, purity nurturing, a new phase in life, the spirit of rejuvenation and peace.
Unaunahi- a pattern in te ao Māori, characterised by repeating crescent shapes or fish scales, signifies abundance, prosperity and health, particularly in relation to the ocean and its resources. It represents the connection between Māori and the sea, their reliance on it for sustenance, and their spiritual connection to Tangaroa, the god of the sea.
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 stranding’s 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 Chatham Islands.
Hand Carved by Fumio Noguchi
Size 80mm diameter x 4mm thickness
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.
