Moko Pounamu Kouma (Breastplate) Genuine Whale Bone Carving - Manaaki

This striking Koru breastplate is carved from genuine whale bone, showing warm, natural tones that shift between soft, creamy white and rich, mottled amber brown patterning across the surface. Shaped as a bold crescent breastplate, the piece features a central Koru spiral bordered by finely detailed Unaunahi carving — a traditional pattern of repeating crescent shapes resembling fish scales, symbolising abundance, prosperity, and good health. Rooted in the Māori connection to the ocean and reliance on its resources, Unaunahi reflects a spiritual relationship with Tangaroa, god of the sea. Together with the Koru’s symbolism of new life and growth, this piece carries deep meaning alongside the natural beauty and texture of genuine bone. Hung on an adjustable cord, this one-of-a-kind taonga is a striking and meaningful piece to wear.

Kouma - Breastplate- sits close to the heart, symbolising protection, inner strength, and resilience. Traditionally, it represents the sternum or breastbone, a core structure of the body that provides support and endurance. This taonga serves as a reminder of the wearer’s strength—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Wearing a Kouma connects a person to their ancestors, carrying forward their mana and wisdom. It is a symbol of courage and the ability to face life’s challenges with determination. The coolness of the stone against the skin reinforces a deep connection to Papatūānuku, grounding the wearer in their journey.

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 43mm long x 70mm wide x 7mm 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.