SKU J5155-B

A hand-crafted Wheku (head) Form Pendant carved in Aotea jade. Here are some words from the artist about the type of stone, its meaning, and symbolism within the Māori world:

"Aotea is an exceptionally vibrant stone that can show colors of Blue, green, white and black. A story I remember about Aotea is that it was the Gift Rūaumoko gave to Rangi (Sky), Papa (Earth) and Tangaroa (Ocean). The intention of this gift was to bring peace to this unsettled world. Aotea is only found in New Zealand and is prized by the people of Kāti Mahaki/Makaawhio.

I often think of what the world was like for our ancestors. Stories told to me of how the heads of loved ones were preserved and brought out to weep over, confide in, to remember. The thought is so foreign to us in the context of our time where Facebook and digital photographs become the place of legend. How will we look to our descendants and how will they preserve us? E Koro imagines an ancestor who we will carry, eyes to watch over us, an expression of reverence for old ways, an awe-full expression of love and acceptance of the whole person."

Includes a waxed braid cord and carved bone toggle.

Also includes a presentation case and a detailed description of the meaning of the carving.

Size:
73 x 40 mm Long (2.87 x 1.57 Inches)
Includes free shipping worldwide.

This piece also comes with a presentation box, depicted in the second picture.

A Wheku is a carved wooden figure that represents an ancestral spirit in Māori culture. It is typically placed at the apex of the gable on the front of a meeting house, symbolizing the guardianship and protection of the ancestors over the people inside.

This is a one of a kind piece carved from an amazing piece of jade by a Master Carver.  It will be removed from the site when it is sold. All pieces are unique and not mass produced. There is only one. [Full disclosure. We have had a rare instance where a piece was sold by the Carver first.] In that case we will immediately refund you and let you know.

Shipped out of New Zealand.