Bone Toki Manaia Painted Pendant - 150mm

Bone Toki Manaia Painted Pendant.

Hand Painted.

The Toki.

This design represents the Toki or Adze ("adz" in American English) which was used to carve the great canoes and also to cut and work timber for the fortresses or Pahs in which the Maori lived. 

It was such an important tool in Maori life that it became regarded as a symbol of power, authority and good character. 

It is also the mark of the craftsman and artist.

The Manaia.

The Manaia is an ancient mythical being with a birds head and a human form.

It is said to be the messenger between the earthly world of mortals and the domain of the spirits.

The Manaia is a holder of great spiritual energy and is a guardian against evil. 

Also in this gallery are other similar guardians such as Taniwha (guardians of t rivers and lakes), and Marakihau (guardians of the ocean) 

Many of these bone carvings also incorporate an inlay of beautiful rainbow coloured Paua shell.

Paua used in Jewellery.

New Zealand Paua (Abalone) when used in jewellery is said to bring prosperity, good luck and peace to the wearer.

Size Approx 150 H x 37mm W.

We do not recommend exposure to any water as staining may wash off.

We photograph each piece but a slight colour variation may occur.