TE KAHA O TE ARERO

TE KAHA O TE ARERO - The Power of the Tongue - Hand Carved Whale Bone Toki with New Zealand Jade

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 or adze is named Te kaha o te arero. This translates to
the power of the tongue. It is a made from whale bone that originates from the
Kaikoura region of the South Island. Inlayed into the bottom of the bone is some
pounamu.

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.

The pounamu at the bottom represents the power of the tongue. The whetero
(sticking out the tongue) is a specific part of a haka performance, a traditional
Māori posture dance. It's an aggressive and intimidating gesture, originally used to
frighten enemies before a battle. As such, it is a challenge. While both men and
women perform the haka, the whetero is performed by men only. In this context,
the challenge is to use the tongue for the giving of life. Therefore, it is the gift of
the orator.

TE KAHA O TE ARERO is a marvellous piece that will certainly draw attention and comment.

TE KAHA O TE ARERO is lovingly packaged in a woven kete pouch and is provided with a black 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: Strength ~ Courage ~ Authority

Artist: Andrew Doughty

Material: Whale Bone with New Zealand Pounamu (Jade)

Cord Colour: Black

Cord Length: Adjustable

Size: 86mm (3.4") long; 30mm (1.1") wide