This fabulous contemporary Maori Hei Matau ( hook) Pendant represents the mythical Maori Marakihau ( Sea Monster). In Maori mythology, the Marakihau was a sea creature in human form, but with a long tongue with which it could swallow up canoes and men. Marakihau carvings often decorated the porches of carved houses.
In this contemporary Bone Pendant version of the Marakihau ( pronounced Ma-ra-key-ho), the sea monster is the kaitiaki ( guardian) of the sea. The long tongue is replaced by a long feeding tube, representing the sacredness of feeding a tohunga or rangatira. See, at the end of the feeding tube, that it is feeding on a shark. Also note the New Zealand Greenstone eye. The bone is dyed with tea.
This fabulous Maori bone pendant measures approximately 75mm x 35mm (3" x 1 3/8")and comes to you on a muka ( flax fibre) adjustable cord.
This special design will be offered once only, so buy it now! As each David Taylor design is purchased, we will move on to a new bone carving.
David Taylor is a highly skilled bone artist from this part of New Zealand. Of Maori/ Scottish descent.
