This mere has been shaped from deep kawakawa pounamu, the dark, rich green stone prized for its strength and depth of colour. Its classic form flows from a broad, rounded blade through a gently tapered body to a grip finished with carved ridges at the butt. A drilled hole carries a plaited cord finished with a soft fibre tassel, a traditional detail that adds texture and warmth against the stone. Viewed in natural light, the surface reveals subtle movement and variation through the pounamu, giving the piece a quiet presence. Long regarded as a symbol of mana and leadership, the mere is a taonga to be honoured and passed down.
The mere is presented on a handcrafted rimu box, its warm honey red grain a natural partner to the deep green of the stone. Held on two slim pins above the lid, the mere sits at eye level, ready for display in a home, office or boardroom. Together, the pieces form a striking heirloom that celebrates the meeting of Aotearoa’s stone and native timber, suited to marking a significant milestone, honouring a leader, or as a centrepiece for a collection.
A beautiful Mere handcrafted from Kawakawa Pounamu, this gorgeous carving shows the cascading, rolling changes of colour and tone in the Greenstone to their best effect. An amazing work of art from stone. This fabulous Mere also comes with a wooden stand.
The box rests on a natural pounamu base which is not included.
Mere
or Patu is a type of short, broad-bladed weapon in the shape of an enlarged tear drop. It was used to strike/jab an opponent in the body or the head. The Mere signifies high status and gives the owner courage and strength. It is the same design as a Patu, but the difference is a Patu is made of wood, stone, or whale bone whereas Mere are made of Greenstone Pounamu.
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.
Rimu
is a dense native timber of NZ. It is deep reddish brown in colour and is strong and durable. A stunning timber - one of the most beautiful in the world with a fine textured grain.
Hand crafted by Des Hetherington & Sam Hetherington
Mere size – 430mm long x 90 mm wide (thickest at top of handle - tapering to end of Mere)
There may be a slight degree of colour variation based on different computer or device screen resolutions that you are viewing from.
The box rests on a natural pounamu base which is not included.
