BASALT TIKI
In stock
BASALT TIKI
A beautiful New Zealand Basalt Stone Tiki, hand carved by Alex Sands.
Look closely at the photos and the video and you will see detail that perhaps isn't evident at first glance. This piece is as masterfully carved as any we have seen - a jade carving for collectors of traditional art.
The design is a traditional one - angled head, deep set eyes made of Pāua Shell. One hand is braced on the thigh, and the other lain across the chest. It is a solid and substantial piece of carved art.
BASALT TIKI - needs to be worn in my view. It will just get better and better with wear - the stone will absorb body oils and take on a wonderful glow. This is a real beauty!
The tiki is a well recognised symbol in Maori culture, but also has historical roots in Hawaiian and wider Polynesian cultures. It is believed to symbolise fertility, and was often worn by women who believed that it would promote fertility. Pregnant women wore tiki to promote a healthy and easy birth. They would wear the piece during the birth - and recite karakia, prayers, to the tiki asking for assistance in the birth of their child. Its form is believed to represent a human embryo, often carved with the hands placed on the loins in what is believed to be a direct reference to fertility.
These pendants were traditionally highly valued and wearers were seen to possess clarity of thought, loyalty, great inner knowledge and strength of character.
The tiki is believed by some to have come from the stars, and was regarded as the 'first man'. He was (and still is) believed to have a positive influence on fertility, and to bring the wearer good luck.
Shipping to you with DHL Express Courier is included in the price.
Meaning: Fertility ~ Fortune ~ Creation
Artist: Alex Sands
Material: New Zealand Basalt Stone with Pāua Shell inlay eyes
Cord Colour: 4-Plait Tan
Cord Length: Adjustable
Size: 57mm (2.2") long; 101mm (4") wide
