Hand Carved Maori Bone & Paua Shell Hei Matau Fish Hook Pendant from New Zealand

Description

Symbolic meaning of this piece: The Hei Matau (Fish hook) represents abundance, prosperity, strength and fertility. They are also seen as good luck charms, especially for those travelling over water. Hei-Matau are symbols of power and authority which are deeply respected by the Maori people. Bone carvings have a very special feel to them, blending with your body over time and taking on part of your spirit to become something very special, a Taonga. Found only in New Zealand coastal waters, Paua is a mollusc renowned as a local seafood delicacy. The shell is prized for its lustrous colour. Maori traditionally use the shell within wood carvings. According to Maori legend, Paua was a special gift from Tangaroa, the god of the sea. As a New Zealander I am proud to offer these beautiful pieces of my homeland to our customers.