Stanley Nathan Large Hei-Matau Fish Hook Necklace.

ID: NB116i

75mm in length, 3 inches

Stanley is a traditional artist, and works in both bone and jade.

His designs are deceptively simple in form but embody the power and grace of his Maori heritage.

He is a master of the traditional methods and has a great love for the old methods when it comes to both the styling and the complex bindings which are a feature of his work.

Stanley is also a teacher of his craft and spends most of his time mentoring underprivileged youth, giving them not only the gift of a craft passed down for centuries by his ancestors, but teaching them about their own heritage and the pride they should have in their culture.

All carvings are supplied complete with a traditional style cord & bag. Most cords are hand made from black waxed braid with a loop and bone toggle fitted. A woven flax presentation case and information on the meaning of the design is also included.

The large and intricately bound traditional Hei-Matau are often worn by Maori warriors when performing ceremonial dances or greetings. They are simple in form but carry with them an aura of strength and power.

Traditionally, Maori Fish Hook carvings (Hei-Matau) represent prosperity,abundance, fertility and strength. They are also seen as good luck charms, particularly for those traveling over water. Hei-Matau are symbols of power and authority which are held in great reverence by the Maori people.