Moko Pounamu Taniwha Whale Tooth Rei Puta Genuine Whale Bone - Wairua

"Taniwha Tooth" is an intricately carved whale tooth amulet, its elongated, gently curved form covered in sweeping lines, tightly curled spirals and finely patterned figures. Raised details stand against recessed areas, creating depth across the warm ivory surface. Pāua eyes near the lower tip add flashes of blue, green and violet, bringing a vivid focal point to the carving.

Presented on a black cord, this distinctive pendant draws on the protective presence of taniwha—the mystical spirit forms associated with water and guardianship of iwi or special places. Its detailed composition invites closer inspection, offering new features to discover from different angles. A striking personal amulet or treasured display piece, Taniwha Tooth combines sculptural beauty with a meaningful theme of protection.

Taniwha In Māori mythology are beings that live in deep pools in rivers, dark caves, or in the sea, especially in places with dangerous currents or deceptive breakers. They were sometimes considered to be highly respected Kaitiaki (protective guardians) of people and places but were often thought of as dangerous, predatory beings.

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 strandings 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 Kapiti Island.

Carved by Owen Mapp CNZM

Size 140mm long x 53mm wide x 30mm 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.