A fantastic Whale Tail with beautiful koru detail by master bone carver Peter Mitchell.
Whale Tail- Muri Paraoa - meaning speed and strength. The Whale Tail represents the support often shown by dolphins and whales to humans in distress, therefore a symbol of protection. It expresses the respect for the sea and nature thus a symbol of good luck, providing safe passage over water. The Whale was the most important animal in the life of the Maori. Besides speed and strength, it also represents success, confidence, sensitivity, and the bond between animal and human.
Traditionally carved from Whale bone, however these days many bone carvings are made from cattle bone as it is an ethically abundant source.
Hand Carved by Peter Mitchell
Size 48mm long x 28mm wide (approx)
This is an example of the carving you will receive. You will not receive this exact piece, but one that is similar. This is due to each individual Hei Matau being carved from natural bone where the colouring will differ depending on the elements in the bone.
