About this item: This Tūī is one of a series of my ‘Te Rau’ Kaitiaki designs which are all based on a circle with a cut out circle within. All have some of these Manaia or spirit faces to depict a particular part of their special attributes. In the birds, as with Tūī shown here, the manaia faces acknowledge the gift of flight their hands have been given by the gods.

The designs also include some more recognisable element to make the featured kaitiaki more accessible than is often the case in many more stylised traditional works. Some however are more abstract and their special aspect is conceptual rather than visual as is typical of Māori Art.

About Kaitiaki Designs: People throughout the world have recognised that both animate and inanimate beings have a special place in guiding their lives. Be it as star signs, time symbols or as talismen to guide and protect. The special attributes of these beings is recognised as being transferable. Therefore wearing a representation of them is seen as helping the transfer of their powers to the wearer. To Maori, these talismen are known as Kaitiaki.

Protocol: Traditionally these treasures are given personal names and you are invited to continue that tradition.

Material: Bone. All the bone for these carvings are from farmed animals and are not therefore restricted by CITES conventions for border restrictions if travelling. The cords are of adjustable length for convenience.

ALSO AVAILABLE; KOKAKO, KAHU, THE HAWK, KAWAU, THE SHAG, PUTANGITANGI,PARADISE DUCKS, PEKAPEKA and a few others.

For carved nest add $90.00