Everyday Wear - Special Occasions - Heirloom Taonga
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“The Taonga has arrived and I am absolutely in awe of its beauty, intricacy and simplicity and the typed explanation you have sent is really really meaningful. You have such incredible talent!”
“Your carving arrived today safe and sound. I am thrilled with the presentation of it and the print out of what it represents. It is a truly beautiful piece of art. I know my brother will love and cherish it. Thank you so much!”
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PLEASE NOTE: AS THIS IS WHALE TOOTH, THIS CARVING CAN ONLY BE COURIED TO A NEW ZEALAND ADDRESS.
This large Taonga is named Haukāinga which means true home. It is made from a slice of niho parāoa (whale tooth) which whakapapas to the Kaikoura region.
The main basis of this piece consists of two manaia who emerge from the body of tooth. These manaia are interconnected. The manaia, or spiritual guardian, is the profile of a Tiki. This is symbolic of being half in this world and half in the spirit world. Manaia can be adapted with other symbols and stylized to communicate different aspects, or meanings. They are the bearers of messages and can be likened to ministering spirits.
The interconnected nature of the manaia speaks of the interplay between our physical body, the spirit, the world around us, and our Creator. At another level they represent an enduring love that is found in connection to our true home.
Upon the front the kowhaiwhai pattern merges at the centre. This depicts the two lineages of whānau coming together. Either side of the top manaia head are small inlays of two red garnets. These represent the wings of strength and wisdom needed to support and persevering love.
The overall intricate flow of korus and carved intricacies are designed to express some of the complexities of life. Life has twists and turns and is generally not as straight forwards as we would always like. The tip of the tooth is reminiscent of an arrowhead. This represents direction, overcoming struggle, and moving forward. At another level it also symbolises nourishment through the ability to hunt.
The other side to the carving continues the themes already expressed, however, more emphasises the shape of the wings. It is symbolic of having the ability to rise above all challenges and gain the freedom of a broader vision.
Dear friend, Kia Ora
This matau, (fishhook) is part of the Herea ki te kainga (Homeward bound) series. It is named Rere Ngawari which means gentle flow.
The fishhook signifies abundance, nourishment, and strength. As such it represents protection, peace, prosperity, and good health. A fishhook is also a symbol that represents safe journey over water. Therefore, it is loved by travellers and seafarers. The design on the front has significance. It represents the ability to attract fish. Thus, one who is skilled with the lure can provide nourishment their loved ones. This is a metaphor for cherishing others. At another level it symbolizes the flow of the river currents, or the currents of our life. All rivers eventually end up in the ocean.
The ocean surrounds New Zealand. On our land, there is a whole lot more water in our freshwater lakes and rivers. Therefore, fishing was very important to the Māori. Kai moana (fish and shellfish from the sea) played a very key role in nourishing the people.
Given the importance of the sea to Māori, it is easy to see why fishing was a precious activity. Thus, the evolvement and development of various hooks was prevalent within Māori culture.
Thousands of years ago, the ancestors of Māori journeyed out of South-East Asia and into the Pacific. They sailed in waka (canoes), and were some of the world's greatest canoe builders, navigators and mariners. Their ability to 'see beyond' the horizon was legendary. As such, the Matau is also symbolic of navigating our own lives with wisdom and insight. This is attained through spiritual development.
Dear friend, Kia Ora
This Koruru (face of the guardian) is named Te mohio o nga tupuna which means “Ancestral wisdom”. The image of the Koruru is found within Maraes and represent various ancestors who have gone before us. For example, the main image at the top of the Po (centre pole at the front of the whare nui).
By recalling such figures and their ways, it reminds us of their collective wisdom. Sometimes they may appear in a wrathful aspect so to challenge those who oppose us. This Taonga (treasure) emphasises the importance of the oral teachings and stories passed down from generation to generation. Such knowledge is very precious and is easily lost if the lineage holders of this are unable to pass it down for various reasons. This is represented in the pounamu tongue.
It reveals the importance of education and knowledge. Utilising our potential to learn, grow and develop enables us to benefit others and to attain a deeper level of happiness. So, in summary, this taonga emphasises growth, guidance and inner strength.
The notches on the forehead above the eyes symbolise the influence of Tipuna or ancestors whose influence pervades our lives. It therefore symbolises the two bloodlines coming together into one. The lineage of whānau.
The eyes are inlays of Pāua. I have left the area around them clear. This symbolises the power to ‘see’ clearly. By seeing, I mean with spiritual wisdom. With wisdom we can overcome all challenges and navigate our life skilfully. This is greater than any worldly intelligence we may possess.
The design elements above the head represent receiving various blessings upon our body, soul and spirit which open our wisdom eyes and bring peace and joy into the heart.
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- One off and limited-edition originals.
- Well presented in a custom Gift Box.
- Comes with a detailed description of the meaning.
