A stunning Wahaika handcrafted from a fabulous piece of South Westland Hapopo Pounamu. A wonderful sculpture to treasure for generations to come. This epic piece comes displayed on a handmade wrought iron stand. This carving will be a fantastic taonga for a loved and respected whanau.
Wahaika -(roughly translated "the mouth of the fish") Wahaika is one of the many forms of fighting club used by Maori warriors and was reserved for only the highest ranking and most respected fighters. It is often given as a ceremonial piece on special occasions. The carved figure on the edge represented a sacred ancestor or the god of war. The Wahaika was held so that the figure faced the warrior and looked over his shoulder to protect his back. The Maori people being fierce warriors used a wide range of hand weapons.
Sculpture -
Hapopo- Genuine West Coast Greenstone. It's colour ranges from medium green to a dark forest green with a unique mottled texture. The name originating from Kā Umu o Hapopo (Big Bay) which is in Poutini ki te toka (South Westland). Authentically sourced from Hokiauau/Big Bay South Westland
Hand crafted by Des Hetherington
Sculpture Size 381mm long x 98mm wide x 26mm thick
Base Size 401mm long x 111mm wide x 122mm high
Total height 170mm
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.
