This contemporary toki is carved from Kawakawa pounamu, displaying a deep forest green tone with subtle darker mottling running through the stone, most visible where the light catches its flatter faces. The blade has a broad, rectangular silhouette with a squared base and gently angled sides, and a bold double koru design is cut through the lower portion, the two spirals curling inward toward one another to form a flowing, open pattern reminiscent of unfurling fern fronds. The top of the piece is finished with two small raised lugs, bound with a tightly woven black cord in a crossed lashing pattern, transitioning into a black braided cord for wearing. Overall the piece has a smooth, polished lustre, with the carved koru details finished cleanly to the same soft sheen as the rest of the stone.
Toki/Adze
– The Toki had much meaning for the Maori, fashioned from stone or greenstone it was an essential tool for survival and day to day life for the Maori. That is the reason Maori attribute the spiritual meaning of strength and power to the Toki. This symbol resembles determination, control, strength, focus and honour.
Koru- The Maori 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.
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 in gem purposes.
Hand Carved by Luke Leaf
Size 67mm long x 25mm wide x 7mm 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.
