This David Taylor Hei Matau Manaia Necklace combines the design elements of the Maori Hook and the Maori Manaia. 

David Taylor is a hugely talented local bone artist who has exhibited both in New Zealand and overseas.  David draws from his Maori ancestry to create unique designs.

Note David's fine detailing in the head of the Manaia, and the notching along the hook.  It's his attention to detail that is just one of David's excellent carving qualities.

Essentially, this piece is a Maori Manaia design.  The Manaia is a spiritual provider and protector over the sky, land, and sea.  Think of it as your guardian angel.

The Hei Matau incorporated into the design brings in an element of the sea - the Maori Fish Hook.  The Fish Hook is such an important Maori symbol, representing an important food source, and representing the Maori mythological beginnings of New Zealand, when the country was fished up out of the sea by Maui. 

Spiritually, the Hei Matau Fish Hook signifies strength, prosperity, good health and good luck.  So together, they make for a powerful piece of bone art.

The David Taylor Hei Matau Manaia Necklace measures approximately 80mm x 40mm (3 1/4" x 1 1/2").  It comes to you on a plaited synthetic cord.  Synthetic rather than natural muka flax fibre, as the natural fibre degrades relatively quickly, and we don't want you to lose this wonderful necklace from around your neck.