A gorgeous deep green Manaia (Guardian) carved from Kawakawa Pounamu. Subtle yet exceptional carving skill is shown here - the ridge-line along the top of the Manaia is perfectly defined, and the eye is led to the changing shades reflected on either side of these lines - a marvelous taonga.
Manaia
is a mythological creature in Māori culture and is a common motif in Māori carving and jewellery. The Manaia is usually depicted as having the head of a bird and the tail of a fish and the body of a man, though it is sometimes depicted as a bird, a serpent, or a human figure in profile. The Manaia is traditionally believed to be the messenger between the earthly world of mortals and the domain of the spirits, and its symbol is used as a guardian against evil.
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 for gem purposes.
Hand Carved by Kurtis Bell
Size 73mm long x 47mm wide x 8mm 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.
