Kokoi - sharp

Dear friend, Kia Ora

This Taonga is called Kokoi. This word means sharp (as in clever, astute, intelligent). This name is also a play on the overall shape of the carving which is reminiscent of a tooth.

The main basis of this piece consists of three interconnected manaia. 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 three manaia speaks of the interplay between our physical body, the spirit and the world around us.

All the manaia are facing outwards. This represents a life that is serving and blessing others. The top of the taonga above the manaia symbolise the rays of the sun. They are seen to be flowing through the manaia and into the world.

The eyes are inlays of mother of pearl with a pupil of pounamu. These eyes both reflect and absorb at the same time.

I hope you like the carving and enjoy the various layers of meaning imbued in this creation. It comes with a certificate of authenticity and has been registered in my database of work.