NGA RUA PIWAKAWAKA
In stock
Hand carved by artist and carver, Kerry Thompson.
NGA RUA PIWAKAWAKA is beautifully designed and faultlessly carved. The design at the head is a representation of two little fantail birds - friendly little birds that will often join you on your walk through the bush!
NGA RUA PIWAKAWAKA is a fully functional comb, or heru as they are traditionally called. This would make a fantastic comb to secure your topknot or bun or, alternatively it is a gorgeous display piece.
This will become an heirloom and certainly, in our view, should be regarded as a taonga and treasured.
THE HERU - heru are an ornamental comb that were traditionally worn by māori men to secure hair tied into a topknot. The topknots were decorated with feathers and held together with the heru, which also served to indicate the rank of the wearer. Traditionally they were carved from wood, or from whalebone. We have attached a photo of a lithograph (courtesy of the Alexander Turnbull library) showing a traditional heru worn.
NGA RUA PIWAKAWAKA is a large comb carved from Bone. Kerry has stained parts of the bone in his unique style - this produces a wonderful contrast, highlighting the carved design and accentuating the fantails beautifully.
This is a very tactile piece. It is beautiful to hold, the finish is silky smooth and absolutely functional.
We can also provide this on a plaited and adjustable cord if you would like to wear it as a large pendant - very striking!
Kerry has perfectly executed this one off work of art to wear.
NGA RUA PIWAKAWAKA weight and substance - a remarkable carving and a very bold piece of tradition.
The shape is streamlined, gloriously curved and quite unique. We suggest you take a look at the video to appreciate the exceptional artistry and craftsmanship of this exquisite piece.
DELIVERY WITH EXPRESS COURIER IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE.
Hand made in New Zealand.
Artist: Kerry Thompson
Material: Bone and Stained Bone
Size: 139mm (5.4") long; 37mm (1.4") wide at top
