PŪAO

PŪAO - To Dawn

Hand carved whalebone toki pendant. Artist: Andrew Doughty

A legacy piece that will hold a special place in the family of whoever owns it. This is an exceptional carving thoughtfully designed and meticulously carved by Andrew Doughty. 

In the artists words below...

This contemporary Hei Toki is named Pūao meaning 'to dawn'. It is a weighty piece
of whale bone that originates from the Kaikoura region of the South Island.

In general, the Hei Toki (adze) is a symbol of strength, courage, power, and
authority. Traditionally they had two uses.

They were functional tools used for cutting down trees and used by Tohunga
Whakairo (Master Carver) to create their elaborate carvings.

Secondly, they were bound to ornate wooden handles and used for ceremonial
purposes. Only strong Chiefs with a lot of mana could wield the toki poutangata
(ceremonial axe). Due to this connection with Māori chiefs, they are a symbol of
great mana. Over time they have become more and more decorative, ornamental
and elaborate. Therefore, expressing various layers of meaning.

When a great tree was felled for the purposes of making a special waka (canoe) or
a carving for a meeting house (Whare Nui), the first chips of wood taken from the
tree were given to the Tohunga (elder or priest) who took them to a special place
where a karakia of thanks was recited.

Running down the centre of the toki is a pillar. This symbolises the connection
between heaven and earth. Upon this pillar is the flowing river current. This
represents the river of life and the current of time. Always moving forward. It is
reminiscent of the braided rivers with all their twists, eddies and turns. Such is the
way of life. Therefore, it encourages us to pursue the sure and steady ways of
heaven.

The markings on the side represent a continual stream of karakia and thanksgiving
flowing upwards to Atua Most High.

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

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

For Sale in New Zealand Only.

Free express shipping.

Meaning: Inner Strength ~ Gratitude ~ Inner Power

Artist: Andrew Doughty

Material: Whale Bone

Cord Colour: Brown

Cord Length: Adjustable

Size: 65mm (2.5") long; 25mm (1") wide