KŌTUKU

KŌTUKU - White Heron - a magnificent, work of art to wear!

Hand carved by Andrew Doughty in jade and bone.

A description of this piece in the artists words...

This taonga has been named Kōtuku - White Heron. It is a combination of pounamu with an overlay of bone. The eyes of the bird are made of inlaid pounamu.

The pounamu is based on the shape of the Tomairaki (Tōmairangi), which is reminiscent of a dew drop. At another level, it symbolises the physical vehicle that each of us possess. In the grand scheme of things, it is as fleeting as the morning dew.

"Ka patapata iho taku whakaakoranga āno he ua, ka maturuturu iho taku kupu ano he tomairangi (tomairaki), me te ua punehunehu ki runga i te tipu hou."

This is interpreted to "My teaching drops like rain, my words trickle forth like dew and the misty rain on new shoots". As such, this is an expression of great wisdom. This poem was gifted to me by the late Kaumātua and Tohonga Na te Upoko Runaka o Te Runaka ki Otautahi o Kai Tahu, Rev'd Maurice Manawaroa Gray MNZM, LTh,JP.

Upon this is a bird. This is a symbol with several layers of meaning. At one level it represents freedom and the inner life of the spirit. It is through the Wairua Tapu that we receive the breath of life. We are more than just physical beings. Therefore, at another level it represents the attainment of true spiritual direction. Being inlayed upon the pounamu shows that it is grounded upon reality.

The Kōtuku - White Heron is a rare bird in Aotearoa. Hence the famous whakataukī (proverb): "He kōtuku rerenga tahi" - Meaning a white heron's flight is seen but once. This signifies a rare, profound person, visitor, or once-in-a-lifetime life opportunity.

This is a medium sized piece, intricately carved and beautiful to wear.

KŌTUKU is a marvellous piece that will certainly draw attention and comment.

KŌTUKU is lovingly packaged in a woven kete pouch and is provided with an adjustable cord. Also included in your package, a note from the carver about your original work of Art to Wear.

Free shipping worldwide - Express Courier Shipping is included in the price.

Meaning: Inner Peace ~ Grounded ~ Protection

Artist: Andrew Doughty

Material: New Zealand Jade, Pounamu with Bone

Cord Colour: Sunrise Yellow/Ice White/Black Cord with Sunrise Yellow Popper

Cord Length: Adjustable

Size: 79mm (3.1") long; 23mm (0.9") wide at bottom